News

News

St. Tammany Parish Council Authorizes Animal Services Millage Renewal on December Ballot

St. Tammany Parish Council Authorizes Animal Services Millage Renewal on December Ballot

The St. Tammany Parish Council adopted a resolution at their August meeting last night, to place the Animal Services millage renewal on the December 8, 2018 ballot during the Open General/Congressional Election. Voters will be asked to renew the ten-year, one mill property tax — expected to generate an estimated $2,021,348 a year — to continue to fund the maintenance, operations, equipment and capital improvements of the St. Tammany Parish Animal Shelter run by the Department of Animal Services. The one mill tax costs the owner of a property worth $200,000 in St. Tammany, with a homestead exemption, approximately $12.50 per year.

“I thank the Parish Council for voting to put this measure on the ballot. This millage renewal is clearly important to our residents, and it is vital to the Department of Animal Services’ ongoing operations,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We encourage people to seriously consider this renewal and to go out and vote in the December election.”

Fri Jul 27

Northshore Beach Reopened

Northshore Beach in the Slidell area, located off Carr Drive on Lake Pontchartrain, is now reopened to the public after a brief one-day closure, as St. Tammany Parish Government’s Department of Public Works corrected erosion issues. Crews brought in several loads of sand to rebuild the beach and address the issues. The work was expected to take several days, however, due to the efficiency and diligence of Public Works crews, the job was completed in one day. Special thanks to Public Works for their efforts.

Thu Jul 26

Temporary Closure of Northshore Beach Due To Erosion and Safety Concerns

Temporary Closure of Northshore Beach Due To Erosion and Safety Concerns

St. Tammany Parish Government has temporarily closed Northshore Beach, in the Slidell area, due to significant erosion of the beach, and safety concerns caused by that erosion. Parish Government’s Department of Public Works began work today to correct the problem. Completion of the work is expected to take several days, which is dependent on weather and tidal conditions.

The beach, located off Carr Drive on Lake Pontchartrain, has seen a greater level of tidal erosion than it has historically experienced. Because of this erosion, underwater obstructions have become a safety hazard, making it necessary to close the beach temporarily to rebuild the beach and alleviate the potentially dangerous conditions.

Parish Government is asking citizens who use the beach to remain off the property and out of the area until the work is complete for safety concerns, and in order to not hinder or slow down the work being done by our crews. We apologize for the inconvenience, but the work is being conducted out of an abundance of caution and for the safety of our citizens.

Tue Jul 3

Permit Numbers — Key Economic Indicator — Show Increase in First Two Quarters of 2018 over 2017

Permit Numbers — Key Economic Indicator — Show Increase in First Two Quarters of 2018 over 2017

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today, two of the Parish’s key economic indicators show a strong, healthy economy and reflect investor confidence in St. Tammany. Both single family new construction and commercial permits are up in the first two quarters of 2018 over the same time period in 2017. Single Family new construction totals rose by 8.8% from 635 from January – June 2017, to 691 in the same time period in 2018. Commercial construction permits showed a 16.58% increase, from 187 in the first six months of 2017 to 218 in the first two quarters of 2018.

“Permit numbers correlate directly to the economic health of our community,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We have an educated and ready workforce, and an unmatched quality of life. These elements attract businesses who are willing to make investments here. As these businesses invest today, they also invest in the futures of our children and families and their opportunities to live and work here.”

She went on to say, “In 2017, we had a benchmark year for permits and it looks like 2018 is slated to make its own history. We will continue to implement initiatives with a focus on these new investments in our Parish like our Path to the Future, which prioritizes road infrastructure projects, and our Development Code rewrite to ensure the continued streamlined establishment of standards, so that every structure built in St. Tammany reflects our vision to maintain our unique, identifiable qualities.”

Public Notice Regarding Millages

The St. Tammany Parish Council will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 2, 2018 at 6 p.m. at 21490 Koop Drive, Mandeville — Council Chambers — to discuss setting the millage rates for the Coroner’s taxes under its jurisdiction. A notice of this public hearing is available on www.stpgov.org under Public Notices, and in the St. Tammany Farmer, the Parish’s Official Journal.

This is not a new tax and the Parish shall not exceed the voter approved maximum millage rate. The public notice provides information to the public that Parish Council is requesting input before setting millage rates.

St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister and the Office of Homeland Security on Tuesday, hosted the Parishes and Municipalities Working Together meeting at the St. Tammany Parish Emergency Operations Center in downtown Covington. Representatives were present from local municipalities, as well as the Louisiana Office of Public Health, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, and the Federal Highway Administration. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the coordination of the Parish, local municipalities, towns and villages in advance of Hurricane season — or any event that would require a widespread emergency response — and their collective work on initiatives which impact the entire community as a whole.

“We all serve the same constituency and we are all neighbors with the same goals — to do our best to keep this community safe,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Meetings like this give us the opportunity to share knowledge and bring all of our individual resources to the table, and put forth a united effort when one is needed.”

“It’s very important that all Parish and Municipalities pool their efforts when it comes to emergencies,” said Greg Lemons, Mayor, Town of Abita Springs. “After all we are citizens of St Tammany Parish, this allows us to maximize our resources.”

“As the Mayor-elect of Slidell I really appreciate being invited to this event. This type of overall community initiative is exactly what I campaigned on during my race for the mayor’s office,” said Greg Cromer, Mayor-Elect of the City of Slidell. “We look forward to partnering with the Parish and the municipalities of the parish to assure that we are well prepared for any emergency that we may face.”

Among the topics discussed were work on implementing a FEMA High Water Mark Initiative in St. Tammany, roadway responsibility in the aftermath of a storm, shelter coordination and emergency response training.

Thu May 24

St. Tammany Parish Government Implements Storm in the Gulf Protocols in Advance of Tropical System

St. Tammany Parish Government Implements Storm in the Gulf Protocols in Advance of Tropical System

St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister and the Parish’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness are receiving continual updates from the National Weather Service and are monitoring the track of the broad low pressure system currently located south of the Gulf of Mexico. As the chance for tropical development and heavy rain is predicted, St. Tammany Parish Government has implemented its "Storm in the Gulf" protocols. This includes preparations by our Public Works Departments making sure that catch basins and culverts are free of debris, trucks and equipment are staged and ready, and retention ponds are pumped down so that they can retain more water. Additionally, Tammany Utilities is proactively monitoring its systems and lift stations to mitigate system issues brought about by storm water inundation. St. Tammany Parish Government personnel are poised to fully activate our Emergency Preparedness plans if necessary, as well as stand up the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) with essential personnel and partner agencies, if needed.

We are asking all residents to prepare for the possibility of a localized rain event, assure that all family members are accounted for and have a safe place to shelter from any potential foul weather. We ask that you clear storm drains, follow your family plan for a storm event, and pay close attention to weather forecasts and Parish officials as the storm moves into the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Please follow St. Tammany Parish Government on Facebook and Twitter for updates as they occur. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.

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Stay connected to St. Tammany Parish Government and learn about emergency preparedness plans as they happen through social media on Facebook and Twitter and the local media. Residents can also call 985-809-2300 for recorded updates. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.

Tue May 22

Make a House Your Home Event Will Explore Homeownership Opportunities in St. Tammany

Make a House Your Home Event Will Explore Homeownership Opportunities in St. Tammany

St. Tammany Parish Government Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the St. Tammany East and West Habitat for Humanity affiliates, the Northshore Housing Initiative, and the Louisiana Housing Corporation, will host the Make a House Your Home event on Saturday, June 23, 2018 from 11 a.m.-1p.m. at 520 Old Spanish Trail, in Slidell, on the 1st floor of the Towers Building. Interested parties are invited to come and learn about homeownership opportunities in St. Tammany Parish.

This event is free and open to the public. It is kid-friendly. Refreshments will be provided. For more information or questions regarding this event, call 985-898-3074.

Tue May 22

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Memorial Day

St. Tammany First Parish Government in the State of Louisiana to Partner with Local Communities to Complete U.S. Census Boundary Annexation Survey

St. Tammany First Parish Government in the State of Louisiana to Partner with Local Communities to Complete U.S. Census Boundary Annexation Survey

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, applauded the work of the St. Tammany Parish Government Geographical Information Systems (GIS) team in their collaboration with five local communities, who do not have GIS capabilities, to complete the U.S. Census Bureau’s Boundary Annexation Survey (BAS). As the first Parish Government in the State of Louisiana to collaborate with the Census Bureau through the Consolidated BAS Agreement, the Parish assisted four local communities in completing the required mapping of their municipal boundaries. The St. Tammany Parish GIS team met personally with the Mayors, or their designees, in the towns of Abita Springs, Pearl River, Madisonville and the Village of Folsom. The boundary work in the Village of Sun is still in progress.

The work involved assessing boundary issues, creating reusable maps of record, and establishing clean and accurate boundary lines. Using electronic GIS capabilities, St. Tammany Parish Government was able to provide this service at no cost to the local communities. The benefits of establishing accurate boundaries include an accurate population count that helps to determine the allocation of revenue by the U.S. Census. The Census estimates that for every individual added to the population of a jurisdiction, that municipality receives over $2,100 in additional federal funds that go to schools, roads and other critical needs. One example of how an accurate population count benefits St Tammany Parish residents.

“We already have this capability, so when the time came for this survey — completed every ten years — we offered our GIS services to community leaders because it helps them to establish accurate numbers, but it also helps us for future planning,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “St. Tammany Parish is once again a pacesetter as the first Parish in Louisiana to partner with the Census and our local communities in this survey.”

The U.S. Census estimates the population of St. Tammany Parish at 256,327 , as of July 2017. Read more about the U.S. Census Bureau’s BAS here.

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TheDepartment of Technology is responsible for the support of all electronic and computer functions of Parish Government and the maintenance of a secure and recoverable technical environment to ensure the delivery of information and services to the community and Parish workers. As a division of the Department of Technology — Geographic Information Systems (GIS) — provides maps and graphics by compiling and analyzing geographic data from various sources. GIS is also responsible for continuous database updates. Archive Management—also a division of the Department of Technology— department plans and develops archival collections. In addition they also advise and assist researchers in the application of archival materials in research activities, and recommend pertinent materials available in libraries, private collections, or other sources for inclusion in archives.

Thu Mar 29

Non-Emergency Offices of St. Tammany Parish Government Closed in Observance of Easter

Non-Emergency Offices of St. Tammany Parish Government Closed in Observance of Easter

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close on Friday, March 30, 2018 in observance of Easter. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday, March 31, 2018. All business hours resume on Monday, April 2, 2018 at 8 a.m.

Wed Feb 21

St. Tammany Parish Government Saves $150,000 in Insurance Premiums for 2018

St. Tammany Parish Government Saves $150,000 in Insurance Premiums for 2018

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that St. Tammany Parish Government will see a 3% discount on health insurance premium rates for the upcoming enrollment period. The $150,000 savings is, in part, thanks to employee participation in the Humana Go365 wellness program.

“Our employees absolutely contributed to this savings as 40% of our enrolled members reached a status that helped to trigger the reductions. We are incredibly proud of them as they continue to accomplish their health goals, in addition to contributing to cost-savings for the entire Parish,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “I applaud and thank our Human Resources Department as well as all of our departmental representatives of the Wellness Committee, as they continue to educate our employees on the benefits of participation in the program, and also realize the benefits of living a healthier lifestyle.”

The St. Tammany Parish Government Wellness Committee is made up of representatives from each department who meet periodically to discuss the Humana Go365 Program, who then share program information with their fellow employees. Humana is the insurance provider for St. Tammany Parish Government employees. Wellness committee members assist people in achieving their wellness goals, they offer technical support with the Go365 app, and they educate fellow employees on the overall benefits of participation in the program. In addition to overall premium reductions, employees earn personal incentives as well. Silver Status is reached when employees meet certain milestones related to the improvement of their personal health and well-being.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Thu Feb 15

Water Quality Adaptation Planned in Newly Acquired Pond

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that Parish Government has purchased just over 30 acres of land containing a four-and-one-half-acre pond, near the Abita River north of Harrison Avenue in the Covington area. Plans for the property include: the conversion of the pond into a water quality pond through aeration or plantings, and the redirection of stormwater flow from two adjacent subdivisions after the construction of inlets from the neighborhoods into the pond, and an outlet from the pond into the channel that drains into the river. Over time the water quality of the Abita River is expected to increase through enhanced oxygenation and filtration when stormwater drains into the river.

“Our water quality initiatives send cleaner runoff into our waterways, and over time increase the health of our natural ecosystems,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This project, like most, will address more than one issue upon completion, and the return on our investment will be beneficial in several ways, and well worth it.”

The property is located just west of the Singing River subdivision in the Covington area. It was purchased at market value, for $630,000.

Crews Move to Third Location of Trace Maintenance Project Monday, February 12, 2018

Crews Move to Third Location of Trace Maintenance Project Monday, February 12, 2018

Crews will begin the third location of a four-part project to repair and reconstruct sections of the Tammany Trace on Monday, February 12, 2018, weather permitting, in the Lacombe area from Bremerman Road to John’s Road. Like the previous sections, this area will undergo mill and overlay, and in some areas complete reconstruction. Each location will take approximately 30 days to complete, barring any weather delays. Segments of the Trace under construction will be closed to users. Parish Government will release maps in advance of construction for each area, as dates are subject to change.

The third location in the Lacombe area will span 574 linear feet. Approximately 3,562 linear feet of the path will be repaired when all four areas of the project are completed. The budgeted cost for this project is $236,058, and Leon Lowe and Sons, Inc. is the contractor.

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The Tammany Trace hosts more than 300,000 visitors per year from all over the United States and the world. St. Tammany Parish Government purchased the abandoned Illinois Central Railroad corridor in 1992. With the help of grants and federal dollars St. Tammany Parish Government has asphalted 27.10 miles, remodeled railroad trestles into pedestrian bridges, and maintained the Trace for hiking, biking and horseback riding on the separate equestrian path which parallels the Trace in several places. The trace was inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame in fall 2017.

Water Quality Pond Project in Mandeville Area will Have Multiple Benefits

Water Quality Pond Project in Mandeville Area will Have Multiple Benefits

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that the Bayou Chinchuba Water Quality Pond project in the Mandeville area, is now complete. The immediate benefits of this project are two-fold. Neighborhoods located downstream of this pond should see increased oxygen levels in Bayou Chinchuba, and increased storm water drainage capacity. Expected long-term benefits of this process include: the disintegration of waste products before they enter Bayou Chinchuba, resulting in higher oxygenation, which can result in a healthier ecosystem for native plants and animals to thrive.

“This initiative, like most we undertake, was designed in-house by one of our own engineers and is multi-faceted; it has the benefit of increased water quality as well as added drainage capacity,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “It is also expected to have long-term, positive, ecological impacts. Future generations will one day thank us for taking the time to preserve our remarkable natural amenities.”

This project partially EPA Grant-Funded, was to design and build a water quality pond within the footprint of the existing detention pond in the Oak Island subdivision in the Mandeville area. Components of the project include: a drainage pipe from Bayou Chinchuba into the pond; the construction of a weir connecting the existing pond; excavation; construction of a wrap-around berm; installation of a bubbler, or aerator within the pond including the electrical mechanism for operation; fencing and sod. The bubbler aerates water that flows into the water quality pond from Bayou Chinchuba, and as a result, the water sees an increase in oxygen levels when it flows back into the bayou. The pond is located south of Sharp Road and north of Oak Island Drive. The cost of the project was $486,573.

The second location of a four-part project to repair and reconstruct sections of the Tammany Trace begins on Monday, February 5, 2018 in the Mandeville area from Molitor Street to Rapatel Street. Like the previous section, this area will undergo mill and overlay, and in some areas complete reconstruction. Contractors are in the final days of the first location in the Covington area from 7th Street to 11th Street, and so this area remains closed. Approximately 3,562 linear feet of the path will be repaired when all four areas of the project are completed.

This second location will span 826 linear feet. Each location will take approximately 30 days to complete, barring any weather delays. Segments of the Trace under construction will be closed to users. Parish Government will release maps in advance of construction for each area, as dates are subject to change. The budgeted cost for this project is $236,058, and Leon Lowe and Sons, Inc. is the contractor.

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The Tammany Trace hosts more than 300,000 visitors per year from all over the United States and the world. St. Tammany Parish Government purchased the abandoned Illinois Central Railroad corridor in 1992. With the help of grants and federal dollars St. Tammany Parish Government has asphalted 27.10 miles, remodeled railroad trestles into pedestrian bridges, and maintained the Trace for hiking, biking and horseback riding on the separate equestrian path which parallels the Trace in several places. The trace was inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame in fall 2017.

Wed Jan 24

St. Tammany has the Best Place to Escape in Louisiana According to National Travel Blog

St. Tammany has the Best Place to Escape in Louisiana According to National Travel Blog

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that the travel company Expedia, named an area in St. Tammany, as the best place to escape in Louisiana. In their January travel blog — The Best Places to Escape in Every State — Expedia named the Mandeville area as the “Best Place to Escape” in the State of Louisiana. Expedia describes Mandeville as “….made for slowing life down to a drawl. Located on the placid shores of Lake Pontchartrain, the town is the right setting for sailing off into the sunset…” They go on to tout the lodging options, the opportunities to enjoy the surrounding natural and recreational amenities, paddle the blue ways and to take a moment to relax at a high-end spa.

“Mandeville has such a diverse array of amenities to offer, and this recognition by Expedia is well-deserved,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “St. Tammany as a whole has treasures that those of us who live here, appreciate and work with pride every day to preserve. We welcome all visitors to make us their vacation destination and experience our people, our culture, our great food, and our exceptional way of life.”

St. Tammany Parish Government Winter Weather Update and Closures

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will remain closed on Thursday, January 18, 2018, due to the high potential for continued severe winter weather and icy road conditions. In addition to Parish Government Offices, the Kids Konnection Playground at the Koop Drive Trailhead, and the Tammany Trace will also close tomorrow. STAR Transit will open at noon on Thursday, January 18, 2018. Officials continue to urge people to stay off of the roads.

“Residents are urged to stay off of the roads if you do not absolutely need to travel,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “The freezing temperatures are not allowing the ice on the roads to completely melt, and so icy conditions remain in many places. Do not travel if you do not have to.”

St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, has opened a warming shelter for those in need. Residents can shelter in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The shelter will remain open as determined by the duration of the freezing temperatures. Parish Government will update as necessary. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

Crews with the Parish’s Department of Public Works (DPW) have been working to spread sand on 72 Parish, and some State, bridges to help mitigate the potential for ice. As the weather turns colder and the possibility for ice forming on roads and bridges increases, the potential for delays in some emergency services may occur.

The St. Tammany Parish Emergency Operations Center is advising citizens to use extreme caution while driving overnight, and tomorrow morning, on area streets and highways due to the potential of ice on the roads. The National Weather Service has issued a Hard Freeze Warning for St. Tammany for tonight and these severe weather conditions are conducive to producing dangerous road conditions, as roads may still have water on them from yesterday’s precipitation. Additionally, they are urging people to dress appropriately for “feels like” single digit temperatures from wind chill.

On January 17, 2018, the Madisonville Woods Water System lost pressure due to the freezing conditions. As a result of the pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed Jan 17

St. Tammany Parish Warming Shelter Open

With temperatures currently freezing, and a Wind Chill Advisory in place, the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, has opened a warming shelter for those in need. Severe cold weather protocols are also in place. Designated employees have been placed on notice for activation if the weather dictates.

Residents can shelter in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The shelter will remain open as determined by the duration of the freezing temperatures. Parish Government will update as necessary. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

Parish and State officials are urging residents to stay off of the roadways as the conditions are hazardous. “Residents are urged to stay off of the roads if you do not absolutely need to travel,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Pay close attention to weather forecasts and news outlets for updates on conditions as the weather moves through. Do not travel if you do not have to.”

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings.

The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety.

In addition, Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock. The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use heat sources such as space heaters and fireplaces with care, to prevent fires, and to be mindful of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. To stay abreast of the weather forecast, please keep up with the National Weather Service here: www.weather.gov, and monitor local news outlets.

As roadway conditions continue to deteriorate, Parish and State officials are urging residents to stay off of the roadways. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) is reporting that I-12 is closed from LA 1077 to Baton Rouge, and I-55 is closed both Northbound and Southbound from Hwy 190 in Hammond to the Mississippi state line. Additional closures are expected. In addition, the Causeway Bridge is closed due to poor visibility.

“Residents are urged to stay off of the roads if you do not absolutely need to travel,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Pay close attention to weather forecasts and news outlets for updates on conditions as the weather moves through. Do not travel if you do not have to.”

The LADOTD posts road conditions at 511.org. In addition, stay abreast of weather conditions at www.weather.gov. Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock. The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use heat sources such as space heaters and fireplaces with care, to prevent fires, and to be mindful of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

With temperatures expected to continue to dip below freezing to possibly into the teens here on the Northshore over the coming days, the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, will continue to keep open a warming shelter for those in need. Severe cold weather protocols for Parish Government Operations are also in place. Designated employees have been placed on notice for activation if the weather dictates.

Residents who need shelter can do so at the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The shelter will remain open as determined by the duration of freezing temperatures. Parish Government will update as necessary. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings. They are also reminding residents to use heat sources such as space heaters and fireplaces with care, to prevent fires.

The Parish’s Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety and offer them comfort.

In addition, Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock.

To stay abreast of the weather forecast, please keep up to date with the National Weather Service: www.weather.gov, and monitor local news outlets.

The St. Tammany Parish Planning Commission Meeting, scheduled for tonight, Tuesday, January 16, 2018, has been postponed due to the forecast of severe winter weather. The meeting is rescheduled for Thursday, January 25, 2018 at 6 p.m.in Council Chambers at 21490 Koop Drive in Mandeville. For any questions, please call the Department of Development, Planning at 985-898-2591.

Tue Jan 16

St. Tammany Parish Government Winter Weather Update and Closures

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Wednesday, January 17, 2018, due to the forecast of severe winter weather. In addition to Parish Government Offices, the Kids Konnection Playground at the Koop Drive Trailhead, and the Tammany Trace will also close tomorrow.

Crews with the Parish’s Department of Public Works (DPW) began working at 10:30am this morning to spread sand on 72 Parish, and some State, bridges to help mitigate the potential for ice.

As the weather turns colder and the possibility for ice forming on roads and bridges increases, the potential for delays in some emergency services may occur. Additionally, as tree limbs begin to break from the weight of the ice or snow, power lines may be adversely affected and temporary power outages could be possible. Any emergencies should be reported by calling 911.

The St. Tammany Parish Emergency Operations Center is advising citizens to use extreme caution while driving overnight, and tomorrow morning, on area streets and highways due to the potential of ice on the roads. The National Weather Service has issued a Hard Freeze Warning for St. Tammany for tonight and these severe weather conditions, coupled with precipitation, are conducive to producing dangerous road conditions. Additionally, they are urging people to dress appropriately for “feels like” single digit temperatures from wind chill, coupled with the lower temperatures and moisture from precipitation.

With temperatures expected to dip into the low thirties to twenties here on the Northshore over the coming days, the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, will open a warming shelter for those in need. Severe cold weather protocols are also in place. Designated employees have been placed on notice for activation if the weather dictates.

On Friday, January 12, 2018, beginning at 4 p.m. residents can shelter in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The shelter will remain open as determined by the duration of the freezing temperatures. Parish Government will update as necessary. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings.

The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety.

In addition, Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock. The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use heat sources such as space heaters and fireplaces with care, to prevent fires, and to be mindful of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. To stay abreast of the weather forecast, please keep up with the National Weather Service here: www.weather.gov, and monitor local news outlets.

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Thu Jan 11

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close on Monday, January 15, 2018 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Business hours resume on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at 8 a.m. The St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services will close on Saturday, January 13, 2018 and on Monday, January 15, 2018 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Business hours resume on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at 8 a.m.

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that St. Tammany Parish Government and the St. Tammany Levee, Drainage, and Conservation District (St. Tammany Levee Board) have selected Neel-Schaffer, Inc., to begin the first phase of the St. Tammany Parish Coastal Protection Project— a collaborative initiative between St. Tammany Parish Government and the St. Tammany Levee Board, made possible with $2 million in funding from the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) through an Intergovernmental Agreement. This project is part of the ongoing flood mitigation efforts by St. Tammany Parish to increase protection for all residents, and to increase resiliency following natural disasters that impact our community.

“This is another step forward in creating a comprehensive flood protection plan for our Parish,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Our Levee Board has continued to work diligently, with limited resources, to get this project off of the ground, and we applaud them for their dedicated time and intensive efforts.”

“I am excited to share in the announcement of the selection of a consultant for this project,” said Henry Di Franco, Chairman, St. Tammany Levee Board. “The Levee Board will continue to work hand in hand with Parish Government to identify critical projects to enhance flood protection for all of the St. Tammany Parish coastal zone.”

During this first phase of the project, Neel-Schaffer, Inc., will be tasked with analyzing and updating the 2012 Northshore Hurricane and Flood Protection Study for St. Tammany Parish with newly completed and current proposed projects in the St. Tammany Parish Coastal Zone. A gap analysis will then be performed to identify new projects to further protect vulnerable areas. A benefit/cost analysis of proposed projects will then be completed to determine project priority and viability. Any funds remaining after completion of these tasks will go toward Engineering and Design of prioritized alternatives.

Nine engineering firms submitted proposals which were evaluated by a team of St. Tammany Parish Government employees and St. Tammany Levee Board representatives.

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The St. Tammany Levee, Drainage and Conservation District is a nine-member board, created during the 2014 Louisiana Legislative session, populated by gubernatorial appointments from various communities throughout St. Tammany. It is a political subdivision of the state and has the primary duty to …establish, construct, operate, or maintain flood control works related to hurricane protection, tidewater flooding, saltwater intrusion, and conservation.

Sometime on January 4, 2018, the tubing supplying the chlorine disinfection at the Willow Wood well failed causing the chlorine concentration in the supplied water to fall below the state mandated levels in some portions of the Cross Gates Water System. The failure of this tubing was discovered on January 5th and repaired allowing normal disinfection to resume. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health regulations, a precautionary boil advisory is in place for Tammany Utilities (TU) customers in Cross Gates, The Bluffs, The Landings, Turtle Creek, Willow Wood, and Autumn Lakes Subdivisions.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this Boil Advisory upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our water supply system have shown our water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call and notices on the Parish Government’s website and social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Thu Jan 4

St. Tammany Parish Government will Accept Christmas Trees for Recycling

St. Tammany Parish Government will Accept Christmas Trees for Recycling

St. Tammany Parish Government will begin accepting Christmas trees to recycle for use in a cooperative effort with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to rebuild the Big Branch Marsh. Trees can be brought to the Covington Fair Grounds at 1515 North Florida Street in Covington and The Old Levee Board Property at 61134 Military Road in Slidell, during daylight hours, from now until Friday, March 2, 2018. Trees must be stripped of all decorations —ornaments, lights, tinsel, etc. and the stands must be removed completely to be eligible for the program. Flocked trees cannot be accepted at the drop-off sites as they cannot be used for the project.

Mon Jan 1

St. Tammany Parish Announces Warming Shelter to Remain Open through Saturday as Freezing Temperatures Linger

St. Tammany Parish Announces Warming Shelter to Remain Open through Saturday as Freezing Temperatures Linger

With freezing temperatures expected to linger from the low thirties to twenties here on the Northshore through the end of the week, the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, will extend the operations of the warming shelter through Saturday, January 6, 2018, for those in need. The shelter is currently open in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings. Severe cold weather protocols are also in place. Designated employees have been placed on notice for activation if the weather dictates.

The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety.

In addition, Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock. To stay abreast of the weather forecast, please keep up with the National Weather Service here: www.weather.gov, and monitor local news outlets.

With temperatures expected to dip into the low thirties to twenties here on the Northshore over the coming days, the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, will open a warming shelter for those in need. Severe cold weather protocols are also in place. Designated employees have been placed on notice for activation if the weather dictates.

On Sunday, December 31, 2017, beginning at 1p.m. residents can shelter in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The shelter will remain open until the morning of Wednesday, January 3, 2018. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings.

The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety.

In addition, Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock. To stay abreast of the weather forecast, please keep up with the National Weather Service here: www.weather.gov, and monitor local news outlets.

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Close in Observance of the New Year

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close on Monday, January 1, 2018 and Tuesday, January 2, 2018, in observance of the New Year. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday, December 30, 2017. Business hours resume on Wednesday, January 3, 2018.

Thu Dec 21

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Close in Observance of the New Year

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close on Monday, January 1, 2018 and Tuesday, January 2, 2018, in observance of the New Year. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday, December 30, 2017. Business hours resume on Wednesday, January 3, 2018.

Thu Dec 21

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Close in Observance of Christmas

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Close in Observance of Christmas

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close on Monday, December 25, 2017 and Tuesday, December 26, 2017, in observance of Christmas. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday, December 23, 2017. Business hours resume on Wednesday, December 27, 2017.

Thu Dec 21

PRECAUTIONARY BOIL ADVISORY St. Gertrude Heights in Covington St. Gertrude Water System (PWS 1103154)

On Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at approximately 5:00 PM a water main broke at the St. Gertrude water well causing a loss in pressure. Once service is restored, and out of an abundance of caution, all Tammany Utilities customers in St. Gertrude Heights, will be under a Precautionary Boil Advisory in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health regulations.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health, Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, signs placed at the entrances to neighborhoods and subdivisions, and notices on the Parish Government’s web and social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

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Wed Dec 20

BOIL ADVISORY RESCINDED MEADOW LAKE AND PORTIONS OF FRENCH BRANCH ESTATES Slidell, Louisiana Meadow Lake Water System (PWS 1103146) Tammany Utilities has received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is

Tammany Utilities has received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded. Tammany Utilities apologizes for the inconvenience and will issue appropriate usage credits in the next billing cycle. Tammany Utilities has received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at 985-643-1376 (East).

The Precautionary Boil Advisory remains in effect for Tammany Utilities customers in Meadow Lake Subdivision and a portion of French Branch Estates. Our well contractor will be re-installing the well column and pump tomorrow morning, December 19th. Once the well is put back in service, TU is required to collect samples and submit them to the state laboratory for analysis. The Boil Advisory will not be rescinded until results from the collected samples demonstrate that your water is safe to drink. We expect that results from the sampling will be received by Thursday, December 21st. Please continue to check the St. Tammany Parish website for updates. We apologize for the inconvenience this event has caused.

The Precautionary Boil Advisory remains in effect for Tammany Utilities customers in Meadow Lake Subdivision and a portion of French Branch Estates. Our well contractor expects to receive the replacement parts for the water well today. Once received, they will begin reassembling the well shaft in their shop and will install the well shaft early next week. Once the well is put back in service, TU is required to collect samples and submit them to the state laboratory for analysis. The Boil Advisory will not be rescinded until results from the collected samples demonstrate that your water is safe to drink. We expect that results from the sampling will be received by Thursday, December 21st. Please continue to check the St. Tammany Parish website for updates. We apologize for the inconvenience this event has caused.

The Precautionary Boil Advisory remains in effect for Tammany Utilities customers in Meadow Lake Subdivision and a portion of French Branch Estates. On December 11th 2017, Tammany Utilities’ well contractor opened the well to perform maintenance. They discovered that some parts had significant wear on them and needed replacement. The replacement parts have been ordered and are expected to come in on Thursday December 14, 2017 or Friday, December 15th of this week. Once the well is put back in service, Tammany Utilities is required to collect samples and submit them to the state laboratory for analysis. The Boil Advisory will not be rescinded until results from the collected samples demonstrate that your water is safe to drink. Please continue to check the St. Tammany Parish website for updates.

On Monday, December 11, 2017 at 8 AM Tammany Utilities will be performing required maintenance on the Meadow Lake water well. We do not anticipate a loss of water pressure during the work but out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with the Louisiana Department of Health regulations, all Tammany Utilities customers in Meadow Lake Subdivision and portions of French Branch Subdivision, as indicated in the image below, will be under a Precautionary Boil Advisory effective at 8 AM on Monday, December 11th.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed at the entrances to neighborhoods and subdivisions, and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

On Monday, December 11, 2017 at 8 AM Tammany Utilities will be performing required maintenance on the Meadow Lake water well. We do not anticipate a loss of water pressure during the work but out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with the Louisiana Department of Health regulations, all Tammany Utilities customers in Meadow Lake Subdivision and portions of French Branch Subdivision, as indicated in the image below, will be under a Precautionary Boil Advisory effective at 8 AM on Monday, December 11th.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed at the entrances to neighborhoods and subdivisions, and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Fri Dec 8

St. Tammany Parish Government Extends Some Closures Due to Hazards Posed by Freezing Conditions

St. Tammany Parish Government Extends Some Closures Due to Hazards Posed by Freezing Conditions

St. Tammany Parish Government officials announced today that, Camp Salmen Nature Park, Kids Konnection Playground and the Tammany Trace will remain closed until noon on Saturday, December 8, 2017. STAR Transit will operate from 10 a.m. until 4p.m. on Saturday. The Holiday of Lights will resume as scheduled on Saturday, December 9, 2017 beginning at 6p.m.

St. Tammany Parish Government designated personnel will be on-hand to handle any issues that may arise due to weather conditions.

With temperatures expected to dip into the low thirties to mid-twenties here on the Northshore over the coming weekend, the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, will open a warming shelter for those in need. Severe cold weather protocols are also in place. Designated employees have been placed on notice for activation if the weather dictates.

On Friday, December 8, 2017, beginning at 1p.m. residents can shelter in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The warming shelter will remain open until the morning of Monday, December 11, 2017. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings.

The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety.

In addition, Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock.

Thu Dec 7

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed Friday Due to the Threat of Severe Winter Weather

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed Friday Due to the Threat of Severe Winter Weather

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Friday, December 8, 2017, due to the forecast of severe winter weather. STAR Transit, Camp Salmen Nature Park, Kids Konnection Playground and the Tammany Trace will close as well. The Holiday of Lights events is cancelled Friday, December 8, 2017, but is scheduled to resume on Saturday, December 9, 2017.

St. Tammany Parish Government designated personnel will be on-hand to handle any issues that may arise due to weather conditions.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Thu Dec 7

Dropping Temperatures Trigger Cold Weather Preparations

With a Winter Weather Advisory going into effect this evening from the National Weather Service, and freezing temperatures predicted for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, St. Tammany Parish Government has instituted its severe cold weather protocols. As of 8 a.m. Thursday morning, the Parish’s Department of Public Works has placed designated employees on notice for activation if the weather dictates, and it becomes necessary to prep roads for freezing conditions.

The Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is in close contact with the National Weather Service and is continuing to monitor the situation. Tammany Utilities advises that in the event of a Hard Freeze Warning, all residents should take the necessary precautions, like wrapping their pipes, to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety. The Department of Animal Services asks pet and livestock owners to take precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Fri Dec 1

Council District 11 Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting for Parish Council District 11 constituents will be held on Wednesday, December 6th at 7:00PM in the library of Bayou Woods Elementary school located off Carroll Road near Slidell.
The following items from this month's agenda will be discussed:

1. A Resolution to appoint a Chairman of the Parish Council for the calendar year 2018
2. A Resolution to appoint a Vice-Chairman of the Parish Council for the calendar year 2018
3. An Ordinance adopting the 2018 Parish Operating Budget
4. An Ordinance to establish the 2018-2022 Parish Capital Improvement Budget and Grant Awards
5. An Ordinance to authorize St. Tammany Parish Government, through the Office of the Parish President, to purchase or otherwise acquire burial space for indigent cremains
6. A Resolution to acknowledge the authority, pursuant to Home Rule Charter, Sections 1-04, 1-06, 3-01 and 3-09, for St. Tammany Parish Government, through the Office of the Parish President, to execute a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the St. Tammany Parish Assessor and all other Tax Recipient Bodies for reimbursement of expenses pertaining to review of exemptions and assessment freezes
7. Any other items of concern to District 11 constituents

St. Tammany Regional Airport will get Lighting Upgrades through Grant Award

St. Tammany Regional Airport will get Lighting Upgrades through Grant Award

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that the St. Tammany Regional Airport has been awarded approximately $886,667 in combined funding from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Aviation Group (LA DOTD) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), for airfield lighting improvements. The project will be funded by an FAA grant in the amount of $798,000 combined with a 10 percent funding match from the LA DOTD Aviation Group in the amount of $88,667.

“As we continue to enhance the safety features and amenities of our regional airport, we, in turn increase the traffic and the economic viability of this facility,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This is another way we maintain our diverse economy.”

Improvements are set to include the installation of a new power generator, as well as the installation of runway and taxiway edge lighting, and all incidentals to facilitate operation of the lighting. Additional upgrades are slated for the airport, including: the extension of the existing runway, extension of the apron, a perimeter fence, a new access road, a new terminal and a new corporate hangar. The St. Tammany Regional Airport is located on Airport Road in Abita Springs. It is owned by St. Tammany Parish Government and maintained by the Department of Facilities Management.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Tammany Utilities has received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded.If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

On November 28, 2017 at approximately 11:00 Tammany Utilities (TU) turned the water off to the above customers to make an emergency repair to the water main at the end of Richmond Court in Mandeville, Louisiana. As a result of the loss in pressure and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, a sign along Richmond Court, and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Tue Nov 28

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Serves Nearly 500 Households

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President announced today that the annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, held in early October, served 476 households. Volunteers collected a combined total of 95,497 pounds of paints and chemicals, batteries and e-waste. This event, sponsored by St. Tammany Parish Government and a program of Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, was held in partnership with Keep Slidell Beautiful and the City of Slidell.

“This annual service is something we offer to residents at no cost and we appreciate that people take the opportunity to utilize it,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This is a program of our Keep St. Tammany Beautiful Chapter. I applaud them on another successful event.”

To learn more about Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, visit www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org. To volunteer for Keep St. Tammany Beautiful please email your contact information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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St. Tammany Parish is committed to sustainability through initiatives like Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, launched in 2015, the implementation of green energy throughout our Parish-owned facilities, daily litter abatement crews, our Green Guide, elevated water quality standards, and Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days. To learn more or to volunteer with Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, visit, www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org.

Tue Nov 21

St. Tammany Fishing Pier Closes for Winter

The St. Tammany Fishing Pier, located at 54001 East Howze Beach Road near Slidell, will close on Sunday, November 26, 2017 at 6 p.m. for the winter season. It will reopen in early 2018. For more information on the Pier visit fishingpier.stpgov.org.

Fri Nov 17

Offices Closed in Observance of Thanksgiving

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Thursday, November 23, 2017 and Friday, November 24, 2017 in observance of Thanksgiving. In addition, the Department of Animal Services will be closed on Saturday, November 25, 2017. Business hours resume on Monday, November 27, 2017.

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that approximately $6 million in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding will augment ongoing Parish Government initiatives to support the continued commitment to flood mitigation and resiliency within St. Tammany. In late September, St. Tammany Parish was awarded $2.3 million in (HMGP) dollars on the heels of the 2016 floods that impacted this area. This is in addition to the $3.7 million announced in December of 2016. This funding will be used to further flood mitigation efforts Parish Government works toward every day.

“Water is part of our daily life here, and as such, we must find ways to manage its impact when necessary, and this funding helps us to continue to do so,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “These projects are well thought out, and based on data we gather about how water impacts certain areas of our community. They are designed to have lasting protective impact.”

These initiatives include the elevation of 87 homes as of early August 2017. In addition, 17 home elevations are in progress, and 50 have had funding approved, but have not yet started. St. Tammany Parish Government has acquired five homes that have experienced losses through repetitive flooding. This process, the most permanent form of flood mitigation, is voluntary, and involves the purchase of the homes from the owners, removal of the structures, and maintenance of the property by Parish Government, thereby removing the home from a flood hazard area.

Applications have been submitted for the newly awarded grant- funded dollars, to utilize this money for projects like, the creation of a detention pond which will accommodate approximately 35 acres of flood plain storage within the Bogue Falaya Basin in the Covington area — a portion of St. Tammany that experienced severe flooding in 2016. Other projects include: road elevation projects in various areas near Slidell as well as lateral drainage improvement projects in the most heavily impacted areas of the Parish. These projects are all pending approval from FEMA, before they can proceed.

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To learn more about this, and any other road or drainage projects in your area that your Parish Government is working on visit, www.stpgov.org/progress and use our interactive map. You can also learn more about these projects when you sign up for Parish emails at www.stpgov.org.

Tammany Utilities has received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Thu Nov 9

Emerald Forest Extension Roadway in Covington Area now Open

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today the opening of Emerald Forest Extension in Covington. The roadway will now extend from Highway 190 through to 11th street. The extension was designed as part of ongoing infrastructure and drainage improvements.

“This roadway ties in to overall efforts to make travel for our residents more efficient, to increase connectivity throughout the Parish, and to improve drainage at the same time,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Residents in these surrounding neighborhoods now have an alternative route for travel that we hope will ultimately save them time.”

The project was completed in just over one year, at a cost of $1.7 million. The roadway was extended by 4700 feet from Garden Walk Drive through to 11th Street. In addition, subsurface drainage was installed. Plans are under consideration to extend the roadway even further to an existing street closer to Highway 59, and will be determined after the completion of a feasibility study.

Beginning Friday, November 10, 2017, scheduled maintenance and repair work on the playground tiles at the Kids Konnection Playground on Koop Drive in Mandeville, will get underway. The work will require sections of the playground, under repair, to be closed off to activity. In addition, a portion of the parking lot will closed off for the staging of equipment and the placement of a dumpster to dispose of waste.

Parents, caregivers and children should be mindful of the activity and avoid the areas under repair. The work is expected to take just under two weeks, weather permitting. The first area to undergo repair will be the 5-12-year-old area which is expected to take about five to seven days.

You can call the office at 985-867-9490 with any questions or to check the status.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Tue Nov 7

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Veterans Day

On Tuesday, November 7, 2017, beginning at 8:30 AM, Tammany Utilities (TU) will temporarily turn the water off to the above identified customers so that maintenance can be performed. Service will be restored by 5 PM Tuesday, November 6, 2017.

Once water service is restored, out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health and Hospital regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. The earliest TU expects to receive this confirmation from LDH is Thursday, November 9th. Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by signs placed in the neighborhoods, notices on the Parish Government’s web and social media sites and hand delivered notices. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

St. Tammany Parish Government sees 400% Improvement in Water Quality Indicators in Preliminary Tests

St. Tammany Parish Government sees 400% Improvement in Water Quality Indicators in Preliminary Tests

The St. Tammany Parish Department of Environmental Services (DES), in partnership with the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation (LPBF) has nearly completed on-site sewerage system inspections in certain areas of Slidell, as they continue to implement grant-funded initiatives to study and improve the water quality in water bodies throughout St. Tammany. Preliminary testing results following these initiatives show a 400% improvement in biochemical oxygen demand, one of many indicators of water quality.

“Our focus is to improve and maintain the quality of our water, reduce pollution, and preserve our natural resources,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We are meeting this challenge where it is, and taking proactive steps to address the issue.”

It is estimated that there are thousands of individual Aerated Treatment Units (ATUs) and septic tanks installed in unincorporated St. Tammany, operated and maintained by homeowners. While these homeowner sewer systems are required to be permitted by the State Department of Health, many fail to meet current, more stringent design standards which could contribute to the decline of surface water quality in the Parish.

As part of these initiatives, and through a decentralized management approach, inspectors have been performing individual, on-site sewerage system inspections in areas of known impaired water quality since October of 2016 with special focus on areas of greatest known impairment.

Inspections were started in the Ozone Woods subdivision in Slidell and are now near completion with additional inspections to follow in the Bayou Liberty Watershed. In the Abita River Watershed, inspections are underway in the Tammany Hills subdivision. In the Bayou Cane Watershed, DES recently completed inspections in the Hidden Pines subdivision in Mandeville and inspections are currently underway in areas of unincorporated Mandeville.

Systems that are found to be out of compliance with applicable laws and regulations will be required to make necessary repair/replacement to fulfill the requirements of the law. Financial assistance may be available for low to moderate income households for repair or replacement. The inspector will leave information with homeowners on the types of financial assistance available and how to qualify.

Data collected in these inspections will be used to assist in determining the best courses of action to take to improve the water quality of our local watersheds for the protection of public health and water resources. In addition, this initiative will help ensure that existing and future on-site sewer systems are properly operated and maintained.

Parish President Brister Kills Sales Tax

Today, Parish President Pat Brister moved to rescind the ¾ cent Economic Development District Sales Tax that was enacted on January 1st of this year.

“I have spent a great deal of time listening to taxpayers and business leaders across St. Tammany Parish, and it is clear that they are not in favor of this Economic Development Tax,” said Brister. “I have given notice to Sheriff Randy Smith to halt any collections on this tax, and will be asking that an ordinance be passed in the coming weeks to officially remove this new tax from being collected. While the revenue generated was helpful for economic development in the Parish, my primary job is to be responsible to the needs of residents of St. Tammany and it is clear that they do not want the tax.”

The 2016 Economic Development District Taxes were adopted by the Parish Council at the November council meeting, and took effect on January 1, 2017. There are six new Economic Development Districts along the I-12 corridor, which generated revenue to pay for infrastructure improvements, aesthetic changes and road construction inside these districts.

Wed Oct 18

Thankful Thursdays Beginning October 19, 2017 at the St. Tammany Fishing Pier

Thankful Thursdays Beginning October 19, 2017 at the St. Tammany Fishing Pier

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that Thankful Thursdays will begin at the St. Tammany Fishing Pier beginning tomorrow, October 19, 2017. The pier will now open on Thursdays from 7a.m. until 6 p.m. On Thankful Thursdays, veterans, active duty military and first responders fish free of charge, everyone 12 years old and over fishes for $3. The Pier could be unmanned during Thursday operations. Patrons who need assistance will need to call, 985-867-9490.

The schedule for the Pier is now as follows: Thursday –Sunday, 7a.m. -6pm. The Pier is located at 54001 E. Howze Beach Road near Slidell.

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After Hurricane Katrina destroyed the original I-10 Twin Spans, the Parish worked cooperatively with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to repurpose the structure for public use. After securing funding through local, state and federal sources, the 650 foot St. Tammany Fishing Pier was opened to the public in June of 2012, making history as the first public fishing pier in the region since the 1960s.

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced the completion of the Oak Harbor Boulevard elevation project in the Slidell area.

“This project was the result of many discussions based on data with Councilman Binder, the City of Slidell, the residents of Oak Harbor, and our own Public Works and Engineering teams regarding storm-season safety, and concerns of the residents in Oak Harbor,” Brister said. “Our primary focus was — and still is — the safety of our residents during any disaster situation, and flood protection.”

“I want to thank the St. Tammany Parish Government Public Works and Engineering teams for following through until the end on this endeavor,” said Jerry Binder, St. Tammany Parish Councilman, District 12. “We are grateful for their determination and resolve, and for the excellent communication between all parties involved— Public Works, Engineering and myself — which made the outcome all the more easy to attain.”

“While this is a Parish project, it benefits not only the citizens of St. Tammany, but also the residents of the City of Slidell,” Freddy Drennan, Slidell Mayor, noted. “This project is the result of agencies working together to benefit many.”

This project increases the protection of the Oak Harbor Ring Levee by raising the roadway to meet or exceed the height of the levee, seamlessly connecting the levee system. The cost of the project was $1,053,620.

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To learn more about this, and any other road or drainage projects in your area that your Parish Government is working on visit, www.stpgov.org/progress and use our interactive map. You can also learn more about these projects when you sign up for Parish emails at www.stpgov.org.

Sandbag Distribution Begins Friday in St. Tammany Parish

Parish President Pat Brister announced today that St. Tammany Parish Government will distribute sandbags on Friday, October 6, 2017 from 7a.m. – 6p.m. and on and Saturday, October 7, 2017 from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the following locations:

St. Tammany Parish Public Works- Fritchie Barn
63119 Highway 1090 in Pearl River

St. Tammany Parish Public Works Barn- Keller Barn

63131 Fish Hatchery Road, Lacombe

Residents are asked to clear any debris from culverts and drainage pathways, and to monitor the weather forecast in the coming days through your local media outlets. St. Tammany Parish Government will have updates on Facebook and Twitter.

Thu Oct 5

St. Tammany Parish Implements Storm Protocols

Tropical Storm Nate is now located near the Gulf of Mexico. There still exists some uncertainty as far as the path of this system. The St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is receiving continual updates from the National Weather Service and is monitoring the track of this system. St. Tammany Parish has implemented its storm protocols.

Based upon the forecast track, we will announce any emergency preparedness plans to the public as they happen through the local media, through social media on Facebook and Twitter, and, if necessary, through ALERT St. Tammany. Residents can also call 985-809-2300 for recorded updates. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org.

Parish President Pat Brister, and the administration of St. Tammany Parish Government, are asking all residents to prepare for the possibility of a tropical event. We ask that you clear storm drains and drainage ditches, and if you see a potential problem call our Public Works Department at 985-898-2557. Follow your family plan for a storm event, and pay close attention to weather forecasts and Parish officials as the storm moves into the Gulf of Mexico. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.
St. Tammany Parish is poised to activate our Emergency Preparedness plans if necessary.

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Stay connected to St. Tammany Parish Government and learn about emergency preparedness plans as they happen through social media on Facebook and Twitter, the local media and, if necessary, through ALERT St. Tammany. Residents can also call 985-809-2300 for recorded updates. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.

Thu Sep 28

St. Tammany Parish to Participate in Statewide Hurricane Relief Effort for Puerto Rico

St. Tammany Parish to Participate in Statewide Hurricane Relief Effort for Puerto Rico

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that the St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, has joined in a State-wide donation drive directed by Governor John Bel Edwards and led by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), for the victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. Two drop-off locations are now open in St. Tammany: First Baptist Church in Covington located at 16333 LA-1085 will collect items Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 4p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.; and Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Slidell, located at 360 Robert Boulevard will collect items Monday – Thursday from 9 a.m. – 4p.m. and on Fridays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. The drive will run from today, until Wednesday, October 11, 2017.

This is a targeted, needs-based donation drive and organizers ask that only items that have been requested be donated. Those items exclusively include: diapers, non-perishable formula, baby wipes, bottles and nipples, and feminine care products.

Council District 11 Monthly Meeting

The monthly meeting for Parish Council District 11 constituents will be held on Wednesday, October 4th at 7:00PM in the library of Bayou Woods Elementary school located off Carroll Road near Slidell.
The following items will be discussed:

1. An ordinance for introduction establishing a no parking zone on Liberty Street and Jefferson Street
2. An ordinance for approval to amend the code creating a new section relative to Parish Road Overlay projects
3. An ordinance to amend Chapter 11 of the code to create a new section requiring operators of Tours on Waterways of the Parish to Provide Sanitary Facilities to Customers
4. An update on the lawsuit brought by the District Attorney against Parish Government
5. Any other items of interest to constituents of District 11

Make a House Your Home Event Will Explore Homeownership Opportunities in St. Tammany

Make a House Your Home Event Will Explore Homeownership Opportunities in St. Tammany

St. Tammany Parish Government Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the St. Tammany East and West Habitat for Humanity affiliates, the Northshore Housing Initiative, and the Louisiana Housing Corporation, will host the Make a House Your Home event on Saturday, October 7, 2017 from 11 a.m.-1p.m. at 520 Old Spanish Trail, in Slidell, on the 5th floor of the Towers Building. Interested parties are invited to come and learn about homeownership opportunities in St. Tammany Parish.

This event is free and open to the public. It is kid-friendly. Refreshments will be provided. For more information or questions regarding this event, call 985-898-3074.

Tue Sep 26

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Scheduled for October 7, 2017 in St. Tammany

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Scheduled for October 7, 2017 in St. Tammany

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today the 2017 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day will be held Saturday, October 7, 2017 from 9 a.m. – 2p.m. at Fritchie Park, located at 905 Howze Beach Road in Slidell. This event is a program of Keep St. Tammany Beautiful in partnership with Keep Slidell Beautiful and the City of Slidell, open to St. Tammany Parish residents, and provides an opportunity for residents of St. Tammany to dispose of their Household Hazardous Waste at no cost. Residents are encouraged to visit www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org/events to take a look at the flyer for specifics on what will be accepted. Along with Household Hazardous Waste, residents are also asked to bring patience as this event attracts a large number of people, and wait times can vary.

To volunteer for Keep St. Tammany Beautiful please email your contact information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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St. Tammany Parish is committed to sustainability through initiatives like Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, launched in 2015, the implementation of green energy throughout our Parish-owned facilities, daily litter abatement crews, our Green Guide, elevated water quality standards, and Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days. To learn more or to volunteer with Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, visit, www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org.

Tue Sep 26

Progress in Pavement in St. Tammany

All lanes of the Highway 21 Widening Project in Covington are currently being wrapped up by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) and their contractor, and are now open to drivers. To view current LADOTD Projects in our area, District 62, visit their website at wwwapps.dotd.la.gov.

St. Tammany Parish Government is asking for the public’s input and ideas. The Parish’s Path to the Future Program, introduced at a Public Input Meeting last week, is now available for review online at www.stpgov.org/path. Residents can view the plan, as well as watch the Thoroughfare Plan presentation video, to learn more about the plan.

Residents can also offer their input via email, through October 21, 2017, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please include Path to the Future in the subject line.

St. Tammany Parish Government, a Cleco customer and participant in Cleco’s CitySmart Program, completed lighting upgrades that help improve energy usage and reduce energy costs. In total, 2,208 fixtures were upgraded to LEDs across four buildings saving 430,014 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this is the equivalent of eliminating the carbon dioxide emissions from 34,005 gallons of gasoline or the electricity use of over 31.9 homes for one year.

“This program has yielded incentives that we are touting today, but the ripple effect of these savings will continue for years to come,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “The taxpayers will ultimately reap the benefits through the lowered energy costs which will be compounded through these energy-efficient enhancements to our facilities. I applaud our Facilities team for their hard work. ”

Since participating in Cleco’s City Smart Program, St. Tammany Parish Government has received $102,448.01 in incentives and is estimated to save over 1,000,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. This kWh savings is projected to continue over the extended life expectancy of the new LEDs that were installed.

Cleco’s CitySmart Program is designed to provide assistance and financial incentives for installing energy efficiency measures in large commercial and industrial facilities owned or run by municipal or parish governments.

“The CitySmart Program is one of many energy efficiency programs that provide assistance and financial incentives to Cleco customers for installing energy efficiency measures that reduce energy consumption,” said Richard Sharp, director of Cleco Solutions. “There also are programs available to residential customers, as well as small and large privately owned businesses.”

Launched in November of 2014, Cleco’s energy efficiency programs have awarded its customers over $4.5 million in incentives for completed energy efficiency projects which can lead to lower bills for customers. Incentives include rebates for energy efficient improvements, such as duct sealing, air sealing, LED retrofits, insulation upgrades, air conditioning tune-ups and mail-in rebates for energy efficient appliances. In addition to the monetary benefits, the programs have reduced energy consumption by over 48 million kWh which is the equivalent of eliminating the carbon dioxide emissions from 3,795,797 gallons of gasoline, according to the EPA.

For more information about Cleco’s energy efficiency programs, call 1-877-622-4047 or visit www.cleco.com.

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About St. Tammany Parish Government

To learn more about where your tax dollars are invested, visit www.stpgov.org/initiatives. Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

About Cleco

Cleco is a regional energy company that conducts substantially all of its business operation through its primary subsidiary, Cleco Power. Cleco Power is a regulated electric utility company that owns nine generating units with a total nameplate capacity of 3,310 MWs and serves approximately 288,000 customers in Louisiana through its retail business and supplies wholesale power in Louisiana and Mississippi. For more information about Cleco, visit www.cleco.com.

Wed Sep 20

St. Tammany will Unveil Proposed Major Streets Plan at Public Input Meeting Thursday Night

St. Tammany will Unveil ProposedMajor Streets Plan at Public Input Meeting Thursday Night

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that a proposed major streets plan will be unveiled at a Public Input Meeting Thursday, September 21, 2017. Upon implementation, this plan will take a focused, systematic approach to making Capital Road Improvements. This is a visionary plan that includes improvements of existing roadways, and the design and creation of future roads to ultimately increase capacity, traffic flow and safety.

“We want our residents who drive these roads, to have a say in shaping this plan to fit our specific needs as a community,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Increasing capacity efficiency on our roadways is a topic everyone is concerned about, and we are addressing this issue head-on.”

St. Tammany Parish Government has begun to implement several road projects with the goal of increasing connectivity and drivability throughout St. Tammany. Projects pulled directly from the plan that are currently underway include: the Mandeville Bypass Road, which will link Highway 1088 and Highway 190 near Pelican Park; Harrison Avenue design, which is slated to widen Harrison Avenue, add subsurface drainage and turning lanes to increase safety and traffic flow; the Highway 1077 Connector Road, which will connect to Highway 21 by way of Ochsner Boulevard; and the proposed Seymour Meyers Boulevard Extension to Perrilloux Road in Madisonville, this road will connect Highway 1077 to Highway 1085 at this location. An additional project slated to begin in 2018, is the Stone Street Extension in Slidell, which will enhance connectivity and provide an alternate route for commercial traffic, to divert it from neighborhood streets. In addition various intersection improvements are planned to improve traffic flow in the Slidell area.

The public is invited to review the draft of the plan at the public meeting on Thursday at 6p.m. in St. Tammany Parish Council Chambers at 21490 Koop Drive in Mandeville. The St. Tammany Parish Department of Development and Planning, in coordination with the planning team from Freese and Nichols, Inc., drafted the plan.

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To learn more about where your tax dollars are invested, visit www.stpgov.org/initiatives. Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Wed Sep 20

Access St. Tammany Celebrates Trace Hall of Fame Induction with Special Weekend Programming

In anticipation of the Tammany Trace’s Induction into the National Rail-Trail Hall of Fame on Monday, September 25, 2017, Access St. Tammany Television will air special programming featuring a trek along the Tammany Trace. Viewers can travel through 27 miles of the newest Hall of Fame inductee, beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, September 22, 2017, and running continuously until 6 a.m. Monday, September 25, 2017.

Access St. Tammany is available through multiple service providers. Charter communication subscribers can find us on Channel 197 SD, and Channel 710 HD with the digital cable box. AT&T U-verse subscribers can find us on Interactive channel 99, menu item Access St. Tammany. Web users and smart TV owners can view our high definition web stream at www.stpgov.org.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Thu Sep 7

St. Tammany Parish Government Fights Blight Through the Removal of Sunken Vessels

The St. Tammany Parish Government Office of Inspections and Enforcement has prompted the removal or retrieval of 11 sunken boats from the waterways in the eastern parts of St. Tammany , including the areas of Coin Du Lestin and Eden Isles, since early 2016, at no cost to St. Tammany Taxpayers. This was accomplished through a focused effort to increase owner compliance, and ultimately follow through by having the owners remove the vessels in question. According to Inspections and Enforcement officers, it would cost taxpayers a minimum of $3000.00 for Parish Government to remove and properly dispose of a sunken vessel. They add that many more sunken vessels remain in St. Tammany Waterways.

Sunken vessels pose several threats to navigational safety. These vessels can release pollutants into the waterways such as gasoline and engine fluids, they can move around during a severe weather event and especially during a storm surge. This displacement can cause a vessel to become a projectile during a storm event, or can move the vessel into the navigational path of other boats on the waterway.

“We will continue to fight blight every way we can, especially when it poses a threat to public safety, at as little cost to taxpayers as possible,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Our Inspections and Enforcement Department works closely with our Parish Council members, who regularly request action on behalf of constituents in their districts, as well as with individual residents who report these dangerous violations.”

The Office of Inspections and Enforcement asks that anyone who wishes to report a sunken vessel, to please call the 985-898-5214, where you can report this violation anonymously.

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To learn more about where your tax dollars are invested, visit www.stpgov.org/initiatives. Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

St. Tammany Parish Government announced today that voters will be asked to consider two 1/5 cent sales tax renewals dedicated to the St. Tammany Parish Jail and the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center, to satisfy State-mandated cost. The election will be held in March of 2018 on the Municipal Primary Election ballot. The renewals lost by a razor-thin margin last April of less than one vote per precinct, with a voter turnout of less than 10 percent.

“We have taken an even harder look at our operating budget since April, and we have implemented cost-saving measures, however, this is not sustainable for the long-term,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Without this revenue, our Criminal Justice System will be unrecognizable and very different from the efficient and extremely effective system we have in place today.”

The taxpayers of St. Tammany are required, by law, to provide funding for the Justice System through Parish Government. Without these dedicated funds, monies must be redirected to fulfill these State-mandated costs. Since the tax renewals failed last April, St. Tammany Parish Government has implemented a standstill operating budget; placed many large initiatives on hold; instituted a hiring freeze, including not filling positions that become vacant (currently at 71); consolidated offices; reduced operating hours at the St. Tammany Parish Fishing Pier; Camp Salmen Nature Park; cancelled the annual Holiday of Lights; and other cost-cutting measures will be forthcoming. Additionally, Parish Government has requested impacted agencies, like the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Jail operations, to make appropriate cuts to their budgets and take actions similar to Parish Government’s, in order to reduce spending.

“Financial support of our criminal justice system is just that important. I ask the voters to seriously consider these two tax renewals,” said Brister. “I urge all voters to educate themselves on the impact on our justice system that the loss of revenue from these taxes will have, and inform their friends and families as well.”

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The original taxes were passed at a rate of ¼ cent each, with a term of 20 years, and to fund the construction, operations, and maintenance of the St. Tammany Jail and Justice Center. The renewal rate has been reduced to 1/5 cent each, and the term reduced to 10 years. The debt for the construction will be paid by the end of the current tax but the operations and maintenance costs will remain. In addition, a portion of the sales tax revenues will be dedicated to the 22nd Judicial Specialty Courts such as Veterans Court and Drug Court.

Tue Sep 5

St. Tammany Parish Monitors Hurricane Irma

St. Tammany Parish Government’s Administration and Emergency Operations Center are monitoring Hurricane Irma. The St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is receiving continual updates from the National Weather Service and is monitoring the track of this system.

Based upon the forecast track, we will announce any emergency preparedness plans to the public as they happen through local media, through social media on Facebook and Twitter, and, if necessary, through or Parish-wide notification system, ALERT St. Tammany. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org.

We are asking all residents to continue to monitor the situation and check their family disaster plans, and make updates to their plans if necessary. For more information on storm preparedness, please visit www.ready.gov.

St. Tammany Parish is poised to activate our Emergency Preparedness plans if necessary.

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Stay connected to St. Tammany Parish Government and learn about emergency preparedness plans as they happen through social media on Facebook and Twitter, the local media and, if necessary, through ALERT St. Tammany. Residents can also call 985-809-2300 for recorded updates. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.

Fri Sep 1

District 11 Community Meeting - September 6, 2017

The monthly meeting for Parish Council District 11 constituents will be held at 7:00PM on Wednesday, September 6 in the library of Bayou Woods Elementary School located off Carroll Road west of Slidell.
The following items will be discussed:
1. An Ordinance for introduction amending the Parish Code of Ordinances, Chapter 20, Road and Bridges, Article I, in General, by creating a new Section, Procedures and Specifications Relative to Parish Road Overlay Projects.
2. An Ordinance for introduction amending Chapter 11 of the St. Tammany Parish Code of Ordinances, entitled Health and Sanitation, to create Section 11-004.00 Requiring Operators of Tours on Waterways of St. Tammany Parish to Provide Sanitary Facilities to Customers.
3. A Resolution supporting the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Service District No. 1, doing business as St. Tammany Parish Hospital, utilizing a property within the boundaries of St. Tammany Parish Hospital Service District No. 2, doing business as Slidell Memorial Hospital.
4. An Ordinance for Adoption adopting and enacting a new 2017 Code of Ordinances of St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana; providing for the repeal of certain provisions not included therein; providing penalties for the violation thereof; providing for the manner of amending such code; and providing when such code and this ordinance shall become effective.
5. An Ordinance for Adoption amending the Official Parish Zoning Map to reclassify 1.74 acres located on the northwest corner of Antler Street and Sticker Street, being Lot 30, Deer Haven Subdivision from A-2 (Suburban District) to A-3 (Suburban District).
6. An Ordinance for Adoption declaring multiple tax adjudicated properties as surplus property and to authorize St. Tammany Parish to proceed with the process for the advertising and sale of such adjudicated properties.
7. A Notice of a Public Meeting that will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at 6:00PM at Council Chambers discussing plans to consider adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election to be held within the Parish of St. Tammany, State of Louisiana, to authorize the levy of sales and use taxes.
8. Any other items of interest to District 11 constituents.
Anyone wishing additional information concerning the meeting should contact District 11 Councilman Steve Stefancik at 985-649-4580.

Fri Sep 1

St. Tammany Parish Announces Cancellation of 18th Annual Holiday of Lights Due to Funding Issues

St. Tammany Parish Government announced today that the annual Holiday of Lights celebration, which would have marked its 18th year in 2017, will not take place this year due to a lack of funding. This change is part of an overall cost-savings approach in order to achieve a balanced operating budget for 2018, as Parish officials wrangle with an anticipated $18 million revenue shortfall after the razor-thin failure of two sales tax renewals last April. This includes a standstill 2017 operating budget with several initiatives now on hold, a hiring freeze, reduced manpower and operating hours at some facilities, and the consolidation of offices.

The celebration, held at the Koop Drive Trailhead in December, spans two weekends and features entertainment by local school groups, kiddie rides and a tour of the light display on Koop Drive, at no charge to the general public.

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President has said in the past that all areas of spending are under assessment, and some areas including recreation may in be in jeopardy for the foreseeable future as officials reprioritize. She emphasized that state-mandated obligations and necessary and required priorities are the focus as her team prepares the 2018 budget.

Thu Aug 31

Ben Thomas Road in Slidell Area to see New Sidewalk Soon

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today a $330,000 project to install a sidewalk along the south side of Ben Thomas Road in the Slidell area, from Highway 11, to just west of Bryan Road. The sidewalk will span approximately 2,000 linear feet and is slated to be four feet in width. It will give residents safe pedestrian access and add to the walkability and aesthetic appeal of the area. In addition, the ditches along this stretch will be subsurface to accommodate the new sidewalk.

The design and planning phases of the project, funded through a $150,000 Community Development Block Grant, are currently complete. Following the bid process, contractor selection, and construction time accounting for weather delays, the project has an estimated completion date of early summer of 2018.

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To learn more about where your tax dollars are invested, visit www.stpgov.org/initiatives. Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Thu Aug 31

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Labor Day

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2017, in observance of Labor Day. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday September 2, 2017. Office hours resume on Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at 8 a.m.

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Stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. Follow us on social media on Facebook and Twitter.

Tue Aug 29

2017-2018 Decentralized Arts Funding Grant Announced for St. Tammany & St. Bernard

The St. Tammany Commission on Cultural Affairs announces the Decentralized Arts Funding grant awards for the 2017-2018 cultural season. The St. Tammany Commission on Cultural Affairs administers the DAF Program for both St. Tammany and St. Bernard Parishes. The grants include awards for cultural projects and organizational support, which provides direct support for arts organizations’ full seasons of work.

St. Tammany Parish

Organizational Support

St. Tammany Art Association

$9,000

Slidell Little Theatre

$7,500

Playmakers, Inc.

$3,750

Project Assistance

STARC of Louisiana, Inc.

$3,350

City of Mandeville

$3,250

Slidell Heritage Foundation

$2,825

Covington Three Rivers Art Festival

$2,250

Northshore Cultural Economy Coalition

$2,038

City of Covington, Office of Cultural Arts & Events

$1,000

Cutting Edge Center for the Arts

$1,000

St. Bernard Parish

Project Assistance

St. Bernard Parish Library

$2,523

St. Bernard Parish Public Schools

$2,000

St. Bernard Parish Government

$1,000

The purpose of the Decentralized Arts Funding program is to provide funding for arts and cultural projects in every parish of the state. Applicants compete only with other organizations in their parish and decisions are made locally by a diverse review panel comprised of members of the local community. The Decentralized Arts Funding Program is supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, and as administered by the St. Tammany Parish. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works.

Guidelines for next year’s Decentralized Arts Funding program will be available in March 2018, and the Commission on Cultural Affairs will conduct informational workshops to assist applicants. For more information, call 985-867-5095 or visit http://www.stpgov.org/arts-grants.

Thu Aug 24

St. Tammany Parish Implements Storm in the Gulf Protocols

Tropical Storm Harvey is now located in the Gulf of Mexico. There still exists some uncertainty as far as the path of this system. The St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is receiving continual updates from the National Weather Service and is monitoring the track of this system. St. Tammany Parish has implemented its "Storm in the Gulf" protocols.

Based upon the forecast track, we will announce any emergency preparedness plans to the public as they happen through the local media, through social media on Facebook and Twitter, and, if necessary, through ALERT St. Tammany. Residents can also call 985-809-2300 for recorded updates. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org.

We are asking all residents to prepare for the possibility of a localized rain event, assure that all family members are accounted for and have a safe place to shelter from any potential foul weather. We ask that you clear storm drains and drainage ditches, and if you see a potential problem call our Public Works Department at 985-898-2557. Follow your family plan for a storm event, and pay close attention to weather forecasts and Parish officials as the storm moves into the Gulf of Mexico. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.

St. Tammany Parish is poised to activate our Emergency Preparedness plans if necessary.

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Stay connected to St. Tammany Parish Government and learn about emergency preparedness plans as they happen through social media on Facebook and Twitter, the local media and, if necessary, through ALERT St. Tammany. Residents can also call 985-809-2300 for recorded updates. Sign up to receive automatic email updates from the Parish on our website, www.stpgov.org. For more storm preparation tips visit www.ready.gov.

OPEN HOUSE: Tchefuncte River Drawbridge Regulations Proposal

Combined Road and Drainage Project in Slidell Will Benefit Two Residential Areas

Combined Road and Drainage Project in Slidell Will Benefit Two Residential Areas

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that residents who live in the Lake Village subdivision of Slidell, will soon see a drainage improvement initiative begin to take shape via a roadway just to the south — North Pearl Drive. Simultaneously, residents who live along and travel North Pearl Drive, will see roadway and sidewalk enhancements designed to make vehicular and pedestrian travel smoother.

“By combining these two projects into one master project, our engineering department has found a way to save time, maximize funding, and create an efficient, beneficial product that will give residents relief in two separate but closely placed areas,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “In addition, pedestrians in the area will see sidewalk improvements that will increase the walkability of the path overall.”

Crews will lay a subsurface drainage pipe from Lake Erie Drive and North Pearl to the existing drainage canal in the Lake Village subdivision, and tie in the Lake Village area to the new pipe, creating a dedicated drainage avenue for the subdivision. The dedicated drainage for North Pearl Avenue will remain in place. Following completion of the drainage work, crews will replace the section of the sidewalk that the drainage pipe is located under on North Pearl, from Lake Erie, north to the drainage canal, with a new sidewalk that will bring it into ADA compliance. In addition, North Pearl Street will be milled and overlaid from Lake Erie to Gause Boulevard.

The bid process for this project opens at the end of this month. Construction is expected to be complete in early 2019, barring any unforeseen delays.

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To learn more about this, and any other road or drainage projects in your area that your Parish Government is working on visit, www.stpgov.org/progress and use our interactive map. You can also learn more about these projects when you sign up for Parish emails at www.stpgov.org.

Thu Aug 17

Combined Road and Drainage Project in Slidell Will Benefit Two Residential Areas

Combined Road and Drainage Project in Slidell Will Benefit Two Residential Areas

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced today that residents who live in the Lake Village subdivision of Slidell, will soon see a drainage improvement initiative begin to take shape via a roadway just to the south — North Pearl Drive. Simultaneously, residents who live along and travel North Pearl Drive, will see roadway and sidewalk enhancements designed to make vehicular and pedestrian travel smoother.

“By combining these two projects into one master project, our engineering department has found a way to save time, maximize funding, and create an efficient, beneficial product that will give residents relief in two separate but closely placed areas,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “In addition, pedestrians in the area will see sidewalk improvements that will increase the walkability of the path overall.”

Crews will lay a subsurface drainage pipe from Lake Erie Drive and North Pearl to the existing drainage canal in the Lake Village subdivision, and tie in the Lake Village area to the new pipe, creating a dedicated drainage avenue for the subdivision. The dedicated drainage for North Pearl Drive will remain in place. Following completion of the drainage work, crews will replace the section of the sidewalk that the drainage pipe is located under on North Pearl, from Lake Erie, north to the drainage canal, with a new sidewalk that will bring it into ADA compliance. In addition, North Pearl Drive will be milled and overlaid from Lake Erie to Gause Boulevard.

The bid process for this project opens at the end of this month. Construction is expected to be complete in early 2019, barring any unforeseen delays.

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To learn more about this, and any other road or drainage projects in your area that your Parish Government is working on visit, www.stpgov.org/progress and use our interactive map. You can also learn more about these projects when you sign up for Parish emails at www.stpgov.org.

As summer winds down, and school is back in session, the hours at two, Parish-owned and operated recreational facilities will be reduced beginning Sunday August 20, 2017, as Parish officials continue to hammer out a balanced budget as required by the St. Tammany Parish Home Rule Charter.

“We are currently assessing all areas of spending as we adjust to the anticipated loss of revenue from the razor-thin failure of two critical sales tax renewals last April,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This significant funding loss, an $18 million shortfall, will result in budget cuts across Parish government, as our Parish Home Rule Charter requires a balanced budget. We have state-mandated obligations that we must meet and though we are doing everything possible to preserve all the services our residents enjoy, certain areas, such as recreation, may be in serious jeopardy for the foreseeable future.”

Camp Salmen Nature Park, located at 35122 Parish Parkway in Slidell, will now open only Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. – 4: 30 p.m. The St. Tammany Fishing Pier, located at 54001 Howze Beach Road near Slidell, will now open only Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 7 a.m. – 6p.m.

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You can stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Parish Government when you sign up for email updates at www.stpgov.org. On the right-hand side of the home page, click on Sign Up For Parish Updates, and this will take you to our sign-up page. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Mon Aug 7

Long-awaited Drainage Project in Slidell Steadily Moves Forward

The Lower W-15 Area/Lower French Branch Basin Drainage Improvement Project in Slidell, formally announced by St. Tammany Parish Government last January, continues to move forward as the design for the detention pond is complete, and the bid to construct the pond is now open.

“This first step, building the 54-acre pond will, on its own, improve the movement of the water out of the residential areas during heavy rain events or flooding situations, and improve the conveyance capacity of the surrounding canals,” said Pat Brister St. Tammany Parish President. “As a result, it will offer multiple benefits to the entire French Branch area including increased drainage upstream and downstream.”

Construction of the detention Pond is just one component of the overall drainage improvement project that also includes the widening of the W-15 Canal, expected to go out to bid by the end of 2017. The pond, designed by Duplantis Design Group, PC, is a 54-acre gravity storage pond, with an average depth of over six feet, which is equivalent to over 107 million gallons of water when filled to capacity. The Lower W-15 Area/Lower French Branch Basin Drainage Improvement Project is funded in part by a $7.9 million Hazard Mitigation Grant, and $1.8 million in Parish funds. Construction of the pond is expected to be complete in early 2019.

To sign up for email alerts regarding St. Tammany Parish Government projects, click here.

Due to a failure of a well pump and motor, Tammany Utilities has been providing water from a secondary source and on Saturday, August 5, 2017 Tammany Utilities is installing a replacement well pump. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health regulations, a precautionary boil advisory is in place for customers in Cross Gates, The Bluffs, The Landings, Turtle Creek and Willow Wood Subdivisions.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:
Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.) Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this Boil Advisory upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals - Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our water supply system have shown our water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the Boil Advisory will be rescinded will be Tuesday, August 8th.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed throughout the neighborhood and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed Aug 2

Safe Haven Continues Forward Momentum as Search Begins for Operator

With accessible, sustainable behavioral health care at the forefront of its mission, Safe Haven, continues to move forward in St. Tammany Parish as the search for a facility operator begins in earnest this week.

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, in 2015 assembled a team to create Safe Haven, a local, multi-agency behavioral health facility that will address the needs of not only St. Tammany and the surrounding region, but also serve as a replicable model for the state as a whole. “The Safe Haven Advisory Board has worked tirelessly to bring our vision to life,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “The dedication of each member from various areas of the public and private sectors, has resulted in this endeavor clearly beginning to take shape, and with each phase brings our community closer to an accessible, collaborative, continuum of care of behavioral health services.”

In addition to the search for a full-time operator of the facility, plans are currently underway for renovations of various buildings on the campus; one to house a peer-run drop-in facility in partnership with the National Alliance for Mental Illness, St. Tammany Chapter, and one to house the Family Promise Day Center.

The Safe Haven operator is expected to be selected in early fall of 2017. To sign up for updates on the progress of Safe Haven visit www.safehavenstp.org.

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In 2015 Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, announced her administration’s vision of developing a comprehensive system of behavioral health care in St. Tammany. Safe Haven will provide a collaborative healing environment for the behavioral health continuum by creating a high-quality, coordinated, sustainable and humane network of care anchored in St. Tammany Parish. The facility will serve as a comprehensive multi- faceted program and a “single point of entry” into the Behavioral Health continuum of care for law enforcement, the judiciary and local area hospitals.

Tue Aug 1

PRECAUTIONARY BOIL ADVISORY Alton Community in Slidell Alton Water System (PWS 1103145)

On August 1, 2017, a broken water line and its subsequent repair, caused the Alton Water System to lose pressure. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY is in place for Tammany Utilities customers in the Alton Community.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise. Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed throughout the neighborhood and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Tue Aug 1

PRECAUTIONARY BOIL ADVISORY Alton Community in Slidell Alton Water System (PWS 1103145)

On August 1, 2017, a broken water line and its subsequent repair, caused the Alton Water System to lose pressure. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY is in place for Tammany Utilities customers in the Alton Community.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise. Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed throughout the neighborhood and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Fri Jun 30

St. Tammany Parish Government Demonstrates Good Stewardship of Taxpayer Dollars

St. Tammany Parish citizens are reaping the dividends from their Parish Government’s modernization over the last six years. Taxpayers will see an estimated $1.45M decrease in property taxes paid to run Parish Government in 2017, with the decision by Parish President Pat Brister and the Parish Council to keep taxes lower for residents.

Parish Government has changed and upgraded its use of technology, and realized efficiencies and cost savings through revamping its organizational structure. All while trying to keep pace with the Parish’s explosive growth, and the demands to do more with less.

“The responsibility and privilege of public service involves the good stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and as such we continue to work every day to fulfill that responsibility, and respect that privilege in every fiscal decision we make,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We will continue to provide services to our residents in the most efficient, cost-effective ways possible, and more importantly, to give our residents the most value for their tax dollars.”

For another year, ad valorem tax millage rates in St. Tammany Parish Government will remain at the rolled back rate adopted by the St. Tammany Parish Council. The estimated savings to taxpayers earned by keeping the millage rates in place, is estimated to be approximately $2.9 million over a two-year period.

The assessed ad valorem tax millage rate to run Parish Government is 7.25. These funds are allocated to general government, drainage maintenance, Public Health, and the St. Tammany Parish Animal Shelter.

Additionally, Parish Government, through responsible fiscal management, earned a Triple A (AAA) Bond rating from Standard and Poors in 2015, and continues to have one of the highest and most favorable bond ratings of Parish Governments in the State.

The St. Tammany Parish Council plans to adopt the resolution to establish these rates at the July 13, 2017 Parish Council Meeting.

Lacombe, LA (JUNE 23, 2017) – Ochsner Health System (Ochsner) has reached an agreement to lease the recently closed Louisiana Heart Hospital property from Stirling Properties. Ochsner, working together with each of its partners, St. Tammany Parish Hospital (STPH) and Slidell Memorial Hospital (SMH), plans to repurpose the recently closed building to open a Post-Acute Care Hospital to include long-term acute care, skilled nursing and inpatient rehabilitation services in one convenient St. Tammany location. This effort will also result in job growth and expanded administrative services in the region by opening a dedicated North Shore Service Center.

“We are excited that this facility will once again be opened and provide much-needed medical services for our residents as well as jobs for our local health care workforce,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We appreciate Ochsner’s commitment to St. Tammany Parish, and we look forward to another leading-edge healthcare facility, providing high-quality medical care.”

The new facility represents an opportunity that is the first of its kind in the parish. One that allows Ochsner, along with each of its partners, St. Tammany Parish Hospital and Slidell Memorial Hospital, to work together and more cost effectively integrate the full continuum of care for patients. Along with increased access to more post-acute care services, this is better for patients because it connects them to a larger, organized network of care.

“With each of our partners, St. Tammany Parish Hospital and Slidell Memorial Hospital, we are deeply committed to the North Shore region and providing patients with increased access to post-acute care services close to where they live and work,” said Warner Thomas, President and CEO, Ochsner Health System. “Over the next five years, we expect to invest nearly $15 million to deliver new and innovative models of care while also growing jobs and expanding administrative services in St. Tammany.”

Over the next 12-18 months, Ochsner, working with its partners, plans to open a 30-bed long-term acute care unit to provide intense specialized care for patients with serious medical conditions; a 25-bed skilled nursing facility to provide highly skilled medical care for patients working through a short-term rehabilitation or for those suffering with a chronic condition who need longer-term care; a 30-bed inpatient rehabilitation unit for patients who need intensive rehabilitative care in an inpatient setting to help them regain the highest degree of independence; and an occupational rehabilitation area.

“Since we formed a strategic partnership with Ochsner in 2014, we have been able to add new services, expand and enhance oncology infusion services, launch a comprehensive Neuroscience program and open a thriving pediatric subspecialty clinic in Covington,” said Patti Ellish, CEO, St. Tammany Parish Hospital. “Our announcement today further illustrates Ochsner and St. Tammany Parish Hospital’s joint commitment to enhance access to quality healthcare services across the continuum of care.”

In addition to expanding healthcare services, the new facility will house a North Shore Service Center with a focus on non-patient care office functions, keeping vital back-office support jobs in St. Tammany Parish. Today, the organizations provide nearly 7,000 jobs in the parish, and with this addition, the potential to retain 190 jobs and add 125 more.

“Together, with Ochsner, we have been able to build upon our strengths at Slidell Memorial Hospital and Ochsner Medical Center – North Shore, bringing additional access, value, expertise and technology to our patients in east St. Tammany,” said Bill Davis, CEO, Slidell Market SMH-Ochsner Partnership. “Now, through each of our service district’s partnerships with Ochsner, we have the opportunity to make a significant investment in our community by offering critical post-acute care services, growing jobs and expanding administrative services on the North Shore.”

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About Ochsner Health SystemOchsner Health System is Louisiana's largest non-profit, academic, healthcare system. Driven by a mission to Serve, Heal, Lead, Educate and Innovate, coordinated clinical and hospital patient care is provided across the region by Ochsner's 28 owned, managed and affiliated hospitals and more than 50 health centers. Ochsner is the only Louisiana hospital recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a "Best Hospital" across three specialty categories caring for patients from all 50 states and more than 90 countries worldwide. Each year Ochsner employs more than 17,000 employees, nearly 1,100 physicians in over 90 medical specialties and subspecialties and conducts nearly 1,000 clinical research studies. Ochsner Health System is proud to be a tobacco-free environment. For more information, please visit ochsner.org and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

About St. Tammany Parish Hospital

A full-service acute care facility committed to providing world-class healthcare and the latest technology, St. Tammany Parish Hospital delivers today’s life-improving procedures with the utmost care to area residents with emphasis on wellness, preventive care and disease management close to home. STPH is recognized for quality, safety and the patient experience by Leapfrog, Hospital Compare, Healthgrades, CareChex and Women’s Choice. STPH is a self-supporting not-for-profit community hospital; it receives no ad valorem tax funding. Learn more at stph.org.

About Slidell Memorial Hospital

Slidell Memorial Hospital is a full-service 229-bed acute care not-for-profit community hospital located at 1001 Gause Blvd., in the heart of Slidell. The hospital’s mission is to improve the quality of life in our community. Founded in 1959, SMH serves as a primary healthcare resource for families in St. Tammany Parish, La.; and Pearl River County, Miss. The Slidell Memorial Hospital Regional Cancer Center also provides comprehensive care to patients across the Gulf Coast. Other SMH facilities include the SMH Imaging Center, SMH Heart Center and the SMH Sleep Center. For more information on all of SMH’s services, visit slidellmemorial.org. The hospital’s main phone number is (985) 280-2200.

St. Tammany Parish Council Appoints Replacement for the Late Dennis Sharp

The St. Tammany Parish Council welcomed its newest member tonight with the appointment of David R. Fitzgerald. The Council District 2 seat was left vacant by the passing of Dennis Sharp earlier this month. The nomination and vote to elect an interim Councilman was held at a special meeting this evening. The Council also passed a resolution to call for an Fall election to be held in October, with a runoff in November (if necessary), for a replacement to serve out the remainder of the term.

"Thank you for your votes of confidence. Dennis & I were raised and grew-up together. I plan on serving as Dennis would have to carry on his legacy," said Councilman Fitzgerald.

The Council accepted resumes from the public last week, and conducted interviews with the list of potential nominees to fill the open seat.

PRECAUTIONARY BOIL ADVISORY Alton Community in Slidell Alton Water System (PWS 1103145)

On the evening of Tuesday June 6, 2017, an electrical surge during a thunderstorm damaged the well motor and pump causing the Alton Water System to lose pressure. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY is in place for Tammany Utilities customers in the Alton Community.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.) Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Thursday, June 8th.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed throughout the neighborhood and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

During thunderstorms the evening of June 5, 2017, Tammany Utilities’ (TU) Meadow Lake well site experience an electrical surge that knocked out the well motor and resulted in a loss of water pressure. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with the Louisiana Department of Health regulations, all Tammany Utilities customers in Meadow Lake Subdivision and portions of French Branch Subdivision, as indicated in the image below, are under a Precautionary Boil Advisory.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.) Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Wednesday, June 7th. Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed at the entrances to neighborhoods and subdivisions, press releases and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed May 24

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Memorial Day

2016 Annual Report Released On-Line or In-Print

St. Tammany Parish Government has released its 2016 Annual Report. The report pinpoints in detail, the revenues and expenditures of St. Tammany Parish Government, as well as accomplishments by departments within Parish Government. To save on cost, limited numbers of the Annual Report are printed, and the remainder of entire report can be reviewed at www.stpgov.org.

“Your government paved approximately 150,000 linear feet of roads, routinely maintained drainage ditches and detention ponds, assisted families in their times of need, kept tens of thousands of pounds of hazardous waste from entering into our environment, and helped over 800 animals find new homes,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We have and will continue to work hard to be good stewards of your tax dollars, and we are committed to making Parish Government more efficient each and every day. As always, we welcome and encourage residents to be engaged in the work of your Parish Government.”

Printed copies of the reports are available for pickup at Parish Government Offices, and a digital copy of the report can be viewed at www.stpgov.org. Printed copies will be available in St. Tammany Parish libraries beginning the week of May 15, 2017.

Wed Apr 19

St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services Closed on Saturday, April 29, 2017

The St. Tammany Parish Department of Animal Services, located at 31078 Hwy. 36 in Lacombe, will close on Saturday, April 29, 2017 because this location is a polling place for the Municipal Primary Election. Business hours resume on Monday, May 1, 2017 at 8 a.m.

Wed Apr 19

Over 50,000 Pounds of Trash Cleared from Parish Roadways in the Month of March in St. Tammany

St. Tammany Parish Litter Abatement crews and Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, cleared 52,090 pounds of litter over 133 miles, in the month of March — the first full month of the implementation of two full-time crews utilizing St. Tammany Parish trusties. In addition, the St. Tammany Parish Litter Abatement team regularly deploys a third crew and a claw truck. The third crew is a Community Service Crew made up of litter violators who have earned a sentence of picking up the litter they have been a part of creating, as well as persons convicted of crimes through the 22nd Judicial District Court, such as DWI convicts, and misdemeanor offenders. 305 workers participated in the cleanup during the month of March.

“Our Litter Abatement team, part of the Department of Environmental Services (DES), Keep St. Tammany Beautiful and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, have taken the resources available to us at a low cost to taxpayers, and made an astounding impact, in such a short time, upon the entire community,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “The residents of St. Tammany spoke up about the litter problem, and we listened and took further action. The results speak for themselves. As we continue to address this ongoing issue, we hope that our residents will join us in this fight to put an end to litter.”

“We are utilizing trusty labor in a positive way that directly impacts our quality of life here in our Parish. This, in turn, keeps the cost of this program at a minimum expense to our taxpayers,” said Randy Smith, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff.

The full-time Litter Cleanup crew, utilizing trusties from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and St. Tammany Parish Government Litter Abatement employees, has been operational since early February, 2017. The DES — Community Service Crew has been operational since May of 2001.

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Good Friday

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close on Friday, April 14, 2017 in observance of Good Friday. In addition, the Department of Animal Services, located at 31078 Highway 36 in Lacombe, will close on Saturday, April 15, 2017. All offices resume business hours on Monday, April 17, 2017.

On Thursday, April 20, 2017, beginning at 9:00 AM, Tammany Utilities (TU) will be turning the water off to the customers identified above so that necessary work can be performed on the water system. Water service will be restored by 5 PM Thursday, April 20th.

Once water service is restored, out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Friday, April 21st.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

On April 1, 2017 at approximately 2:30 PM, a contractor broke a water main near the the intersection of Labarre Street and Foy Street in Mandeville, Louisiana. To repair the line, Tammany Utilities (TU) had to turn off the water to the customers identified above on Foy, Lamarque, Labarre, Marigny, and Clausel Streets. As a result of the line break and subsequent pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed Mar 22

St. Tammany 5th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta and EGGStravaganza

The fifth annual Rubber Duck Regatta and EGGStravaganza, takes place this year from noon until 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 9, 2017. Admission to the event is just one dollar per person. Join us at Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Mandeville on the green, for an event filled with fun for the entire family.

The day is filled with family-friendly festivities, which include an Easter Egg hunt with 15,000 eggs for three separate age groups: ages nine-12, ages four and under, and then ages five to eight; live entertainment; arts and crafts from Nonna Randazzo’s Bakery as well as the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany, and the famous Quack-Off beauty contest, all for a nominal fee of $1 per person. Of course there will be a guest appearance by the Easter Bunny. Walgreens will even be on hand taking photos with the Easter Bunny at a cost of $3.

The day culminates with the Rubber Duck Regatta when one lucky duck will win $500 if he crosses the finish line first. Adopt-a-duck tickets can be purchased at the Kids Konnection playground on Koop Drive, at Lakeview Regional Medical Center’s Volunteer Auxiliary Gift Shop, The Duck’s Nest, or at www.kidstownsttammany.org. For more information on this event call 985-867-9490.

All proceeds from this event go to the construction of Kids Town, a western-style railroad town designed for interactive play. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please call 985-867-9490 if you would like to sponsor this event.

Residents of St. Tammany can now utilize an interactive map on the newly launched Progress page, at www.stpgov.org/progress. This map pinpoints infrastructure projects that are in the works, near completion, or have recently culminated, as well as information on several other larger initiatives that will impact roadways and drainage that are currently underway, or prepared to launch. Collaborative initiatives with other agencies will also be included. Visitors can click on the icons featured in the map, and learn about what is happening at that location, how far along the project is, and what the expected end date will be.

“Your Parish Government works daily to put your tax dollars to their best use, to ensure that our infrastructure is sound — to facilitate the needs of our residents, to welcome new growth, and to accommodate economic development,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Progress does take time, but we want residents to know that this work on the foundational needs of St. Tammany is ongoing in how we handle scheduled maintenance, road and drainage improvements, and the implementation of new projects as needed.”

St. Tammany Parish Government and project facilitators from Design Workshop held a project implementation vision workshop focused on the St. Tammany Gateway Overlay Project, on Thursday, March 9, 2017, at Koop Drive Council Chambers. This workshop, which was open to the public, gave participants the opportunity to review design alternatives and offer input, to further the establishment of the vision for each of the six Economic Development Districts located at I-12 interchanges throughout the Parish.

“The vision for each of these districts is to underscore the distinctive identities of each of these communities, and to entice the visitor, or the resident driving by to come into that community,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This is a proven strategy for increasing economic development by enhancing the attractiveness of the community and the businesses within the community, and as a result, commerce and revenue are increased.”

In addition, the Gateway Overlay Project will develop green space, and set up design standards which will elevate future development for new businesses. At the culmination of this process, the Parish hopes to have identified specific projects and put development standards in place to create a vibrant destination with a mix of existing establishments and new businesses. To view the design alternatives, click here.

Thu Mar 2

Faubourg Coquille Water System Water Main Flushing

Faubourg Coquille Water System Water Main Flushing

Tammany Utilities will be flushing the Faubourg Coquille Water System from March 6th to March 13th. The flushing is anticipated to follow the below schedule but is subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Tammany Utilities customers living in these areas can expect to experience low water pressure when flushing is initiated. If you are not a Tammany Utilities customer or if you do not live in one of the subdivisions/areas identified below, this notice does not apply.

- Maintain good quality water. Over time, naturally occurring minerals accumulate on the interior of our pipes. Flushing scours the pipe and removes these deposits.

- Provide required fire flow data to the Fire Department. While flushing, Tammany Utilities personnel measure and record the fire flow data at each hydrant. This data is then given to the Fire Department who then uses the data to calculate fire insurance ratings for the area.

- Ensure that all fire hydrants are in good working order.

We appreciate your understanding and apologize for the inconvenience this maintenance causes.

Fri Feb 24

St. Tammany Fishing Pier Opens for Spring Season Tomorrow

The St. Tammany Fishing Pier reopens tomorrow, Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at 7 a.m., for the spring season. Pier patrons are invited to come out and enjoy free coffee to kick off the spring season, and Military (active and retired) as well as Senior Citizens fish for only $1 on opening day, as every Wednesday at the Pier is Military and Senior Citizens Day. All other patrons 12 years of age and older fish for $3 and sightsee for $1. Children under 12 are free. The Pier is located at 54001 E. Howze Beach Road near Slidell. Spring hours for the Pier are Wednesday through Sunday, 7a.m. – 7p.m.

St. Tammany Fishing Pier to Open for Spring Season One Week from Today

St. Tammany Fishing Pier to Open for Spring Season One Week from Today

The St. Tammany Fishing Pier will reopen one week from today, on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at 7 a.m. Pier patrons are invited to come out and enjoy free coffee to kick off the spring season, and Military (active and retired) as well as Senior Citizens fish for only $1 on opening day, as every Wednesday at the Pier is Military and Senior Citizens Day. All other patrons 12 years of age and older fish for $3 and sightsee for $1. Children under 12 are free. The Pier is located at 54001 E. Howze Beach Road near Slidell.

On February 17, 2017 at approximately 7:00 AM, a water leak developed in our water line near the intersection of Clausel and Orleans in Mandeville, Louisiana. To repair the line, Tammany Utilities (TU) had to turn off the water to the above customers on Orleans, Clausel, Foy, and America Streets. As a result of the line break and subsequent pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Fri Feb 17

Camp Salmen Education Series Returns with A Spring 2017 Session

The Camp Salmen Education Series, designed to accentuate the inherent beauty and wonder of Camp Salmen Nature Park in Slidell, and to teach students and the general public about the natural and human history of the park and the Bayou Liberty/Bonfouca Basin, returns in March of 2017.

“Camp Salmen Nature Park is in itself, an outdoor classroom,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Collaborations like these, that help to educate our youngest citizens, are essential to keeping the history of places like Camp Salmen Nature Park alive in our community.”

4th and 5th grade students from Brock, Alton and Bonne Ecole Elementary Schools will participate in the series, Spring B-Wet Watershed Training Program, which will be patterned after the successful 2016 fall programs conducted for 4th and 5th grade students from Carolyn Park and Mayfield Elementary Schools. Students will explore a wide range of topics this spring including: wetlands ecology, water quality, watershed history and a special census of macroinvertebrate critters mucked from the muddy banks of Bayou Liberty.

These educational programs are made possible through a collaborative partnership by St. Tammany Parish Government, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, the St. Tammany Parish School Board, the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation, LSU-Ag Center, Louisiana Sea Grant and the citizen’s support group, Friends of Camp Salmen Nature Park.

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Thu Feb 16

Non-Emergency Offices of St. Tammany Parish Government Closed in Observance of Presidents’ Day

Madisonville Library to be Named after Long-Time Public Servant Peter “Pete” Gitz

Reid Falconer, the Louisiana State Representative or District 89, will introduce a bill, at the request of Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, to name the Madisonville Public Library after former long-time Madisonville Mayor, Peter “Pete” Gitz. Brister consulted with Donald Westmoreland, Director of St. Tammany Parish Libraries, and Jean Pelloat, current Madisonville Mayor, before making the request. The bill, which seeks to “…name the library in honor of a living person,” will be introduced in the next regular Legislative Session, which begins on April 10, 2017.

“The contribution Mayor Gitz has made to Madisonville is remarkable,” said Pat Brister. “He has helped shape this community into the place that it is today — a place full of history that has a family-friendly atmosphere —and we felt it very fitting to name this public gathering place after him.”

“It is my honor to draft this bill for introduction and bring it to the State Legislature,” said Representative Falconer. “Mr. Gitz is a model public servant. I am proud to support this effort to honor his unending commitment and devotion to his community.”

Peter Gitz served the Town of Madisonville for four consecutive decades. He has seen the Town of Madisonville through growth change, hardship and plenty. He has been a mentor and a friend to many. His accomplishments include a concrete bulkhead along the Tchefuncte River spanning 1400 feet; his part in helping to open the Maritime Museum, the launch of the Wooden Boat Festival, and the newest branch of the St. Tammany Parish Library.

Hurricane Katrina damaged the Madisonville Branch of the library located on Cedar Street, and a temporary branch was opened in a rental facility on Highway 22. The Town of Madisonville then donated 1.5 acres on Main Street to the library for the construction of a new library branch, which began in 2012. This facility was opened to the public in September of 2013.

St. Tammany Parish Government, Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office announced today the kickoff of a full-time, joint, litter abatement initiative to clean up Parish roadways. The collaborative endeavor, and labor of love, will utilize two litter abatement vans as well as St. Tammany Parish Jail trustees, who will deploy Monday through Friday, and execute cleanup operations assigned to them by the St. Tammany Parish Litter Abatement office. The Litter Abatement cleanup crew kicks off on Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at 8 a.m.

“We are committed to maintaining our quality of life here in St. Tammany, and as such, we must be committed to continued beautification which includes purposeful, consistent and uncompromising litter abatement efforts,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany President. “When we collaborate with other agencies in our Parish, we can use complementary resources to achieve continual, extraordinary results.”

“We take litter seriously here in St. Tammany,” said Randy Smith, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff. “It is an eyesore and a tax burden. This joint operation will give our crews, the opportunity to give back to the community, and at the same time, help to tackle a challenging issue here in St. Tammany.”

In addition, Brister also announced plans to roll out litter abatement initiatives including: the increased awareness of the trash hauling regulations, and penalties that will be incurred when regulations are violated, for local hauling companies; work with local dumps and transfer stations to help enforce their own rules as well as Parish ordinances; litter sweeps by Parish Code Enforcement officials; and to work with Justices of the Peace and Constables, who enforce litter laws, to encourage them to stay the course and maintain aggressive enforcement.

Parish officials also encouraged local businesses to come together and show their love for St. Tammany and to encourage residents and employees to keep their parking lots and business sites clean by encouraging the proper disposal of trach and debris. Littering is a crime under state law, as well as a violation of Parish Ordinances. State fines can range from up to $250 per incident to up to $1000 an incident for illegal dumping sites. Ordinance violations at the Parish level carry a fine of no less than $250 for a first offense.

To report litter violations please complete a Litter Prevention Form found on the Keep St. Tammany Beautiful Website, here. To request cleanup of a roadway in St. Tammany, please submit a Road Cleanup Request form found here.

Wed Feb 8

President Brister Announces Parish-Wide Emergency Declaration

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, made an emergency declaration Tuesday evening for the entirety of St. Tammany Parish, in response to the impact of the Severe Weather Event that impacted this area on Tuesday, February 7, 2017. This declaration is a procedural process that enables Parish Government to better coordinate any and all local, state or federal resources necessary to support public safety and recovery.

Any homeowner, commercial business, school, or church who incurred damage during this event is asked to call the St. Tammany Parish Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness at, (985) 898-2359 to report the damage so that preliminary damage assessments can be completed.

The State announcedan emergency declaration for the state of Louisiana the afternoon of Tuesday, February 7, 2017, following the destruction of a severe storm system that moved through much of southeast Louisiana, including Ascension, Livingston, Orleans, St. James, St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes.

Wed Feb 8

Emergency Declaration

District 13 Monthly Meeting

Councilwoman S. Michele Blanchard’s District Meeting for Parish Council District 13 constituents will be held on Monday, February 13, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Council Board Room located on the 5th floor of the Towers Building, 520 Old Spanish Trail, Slidell, LA 70458.

The following items will be discussed at the meeting:

1. Issues pending the Council;

2. Guest Speaker- Donna O'Dell: W 15 Project

4. Councilwoman’s monthly report;

5. Community Concerns; and

6. Any other items of interest and concerns to District 13 constituents.

Anyone wishing additional information concerning the meeting should contact District 13 Parish Councilwoman, S. Michele Blanchard at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Mon Feb 6

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New Orleans District Opens Public Comment Period Regarding Louisiana Wetlands Rapid Assessment Method

Written comments regarding the LRAM should be submitted to CEMVN by March 8, 2017 at: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers New Orleans District CEMVN-OD-S 7400 Leake Avenue New Orleans, Louisiana 70118-3651 Comments may also be submitted electronically to Mr. Stephen Pfeffer of the Regulatory Branch at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., who can be reached at (504) 862-2099.

The LRAM Guidebook and associated spreadsheets are available on the RIBITS webpage at: http://ribits.usace.army.mil. To navigate to LRAM, select “New Orleans” under Filter View for District and then click on the “Assessment Tools” navigation bar.

Today (February 2, 2017), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded.

If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed Feb 1

St. Tammany Fishing Pier to Open for Spring Season One Month from Today

St. Tammany Fishing Pier to Open for Spring Season One Month from Today

The St. Tammany Fishing Pier will reopen four weeks from today on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at 7 a.m., after a three-month seasonal closure. Military (active and retired) as well as Senior Citizens will fish for only $1 on opening day, as every Wednesday at the Pier is Military and Senior Citizens Day. All other patrons 12 years of age and older fish for $3 and sightsee for $1. Children under 12 are free. The Pier is located at 54001 E. Howze Beach Road near Slidell.

On January 31, 2017, at approximately 9 AM, Tammany Utilities will be turning the water off to the above referenced customers in Quail Creek Subdivision to make a repair on a leaking water main near the intersection of Octavia and Sycamore. Water service will be restored by 5 PM. As a result of the leak and subsequent pressure loss for the repair, and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

We anticipate that the earliest this advisory will be rescinded is Thursday February 2nd. Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Fri Jan 27

St. Tammany Parish Government Awarded $7.9 Million Hazard Mitigation Grant

St. Tammany Parish Government Awarded $7.9 Million Hazard Mitigation Grant

St. Tammany Parish Government has been awarded $7.9 million dollars through the federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, to fund the Lower W-15 Area/Lower French Branch Basin Drainage Improvement Project in Slidell. As part of ongoing flooding mitigation efforts Parish-wide, this grant will fund improvements to the W-15 Canal including: Widening the W-15 Canal, and the construction of a 54-acre regional detention pond (Tenet Pond) which will create approximately 324 acres of floodplain storage adjacent to the W-15 just north of Gause Boulevard in Slidell. The project will accomplish two main objectives: it will reduce peak runoff to the W-15 Canal downstream of the Tenet Pond, and increase the conveyance capacity of the W-15 Canal, and thereby reduce impact to homes and businesses throughout the W-15 Basin.

“We work every day to address flood mitigation and drainage challenges unique to our Parish,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This grant award moves this multi-layered project forward, and as a result, we will see increased movement of water away from homes during a flooding event.”

This award, ties back to Hurricane Ike which impacted the coast of Louisiana in September of 2008, is a matching grant, which means St. Tammany Parish Government will absorb 25 % of the cost of the $10.6 million project. Pending approval by the St. Tammany Parish Council at the February 2, 2017 Council meeting, Parish Government will fund the remaining $ 2.6 million. This project is currently in the design phase and construction is expected to begin in the latter part of 2017.

Thu Jan 19

Three St. Tammany Parish High School Students Advance to 2017 Poetry Out Loud State Competition

The 2017 Parish-level St. Tammany Parish Poetry Out Loud Competition was held on Tuesday, January 17, at Covington High School. Eight St. Tammany Parish High Schools with a total of 23 students, competed in the eighth annual competition. The top three finalists who advanced to the State Championship coming up in March, at the Louisiana State Museum in Baton Rouge, are as follows: First Place, Dejeune Richardson of Covington High School; Second Place, Jane Kent of Lakeshore High; and Third Place, Camryn Caserta of Covington High.

Winners from each state who advance in their respective competitions, will then compete for the National Poetry Out Loud Championship in Washington D.C.

Created by The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Poetry Foundation, Poetry Out Loud is a program that encourages the nation’s youth to learn about great poetry through exploration, memorization and performance. The inspiration for this competition is to promote the art of poetry in both the classroom and the community. Participants are scored on performance and accuracy by a panel of judges. The St. Tammany Parish Commission on Cultural Affairs coordinates this competition for the students in our Parish.

To learn more about the Poetry Out Loud Competition and what students and schools can win through this competition, visit www.poetryoutloud.org/about.

Thu Jan 12

Offices Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Monday, January 16, 2017, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Business hours resume on Tuesday, January 17, 2017, at 8 a.m.

You can learn more about St. Tammany Parish Government at www.stpgov.org, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

With temperatures expected to dip into the mid to low twenties here on the Northshore over the coming weekend, the St. Tammany Parish Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in conjunction with the New Orleans Mission, will open a shelter for those in need. Severe cold weather protocols are also in place. Critical employees have been placed on notice for emergency activation if the weather dictates.

On Friday, January 6, beginning at 4p.m. residents can shelter in the Giving Hope Retreat Center of the New Orleans Mission located at 31294 Highway 190 in Lacombe. The shelter will remain open until the morning of Monday, January 9, 2017. Citizens should bring bedding, comfort items, prescription medication, and any personal hygiene items. Citizens are reminded that household pets, alcohol and firearms are not allowed. The Northshore Hotline of the Giving Hope Retreat Center is 985-218-9485.

The Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness reminds residents to use care when using portable natural gas, propane or butane heaters for warmth in areas of poor ventilation, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. When using any portable heater beware of flammable surroundings.

The Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents with elderly individuals in their families to make certain they have a safe and effective way to heat their residences. Furthermore, they are asking residents if they know of at-risk families or neighbors that could fall victim to severe cold weather, to please check on them during the evening and morning hours to confirm their safety.

In addition, Tammany Utilities is asking, not just its customers but all St. Tammany residents, to wrap their pipes and take the necessary precautions to prevent pipes from bursting. The Department of Animal Services warns pet and livestock owners to also take special precautions to safeguard the wellbeing of animals in their care, including bringing pets indoors and preventing water sources from freezing over for livestock.

Out of an abundance of caution, non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will close at 3p.m. on Friday, January 6, 2017, in advance of potential hazardous winter weather. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday, January 7, 2017. Offices will resume business hours on Monday, January 9, 2017 at 8 a.m.

On January 5, 2017 at approximately 9:00 AM, a water leak developed in our main serving customers along South Lane. To repair the line, Tammany Utilities (TU) has had to turn off the water to the above customers on South Lane, West Court and Solar Court in Mandeville, Louisiana. As a result of the line break and subsequent pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, signs placed in your neighborhood and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed Jan 4

Rates and Terms of St. Tammany Jail and Justice System Sales Tax Continuations Reduced

On the April 29, 2017 Municipal General Election ballot, voters will be asked to consider the continuation of two Parish-wide Jail and Justice System sales taxes. The rates and terms of both taxes have been reduced from ¼¢ each to 1/5¢each (a 20% decrease), and from 20-year renewals to 10-year renewals (a 50% decrease). The estimated annual sales tax revenue projected in 2017 would be $9.6 million, which is a combined reduction of $5 million per year to the citizens of St. Tammany. In addition, 10% of the revenue collected, or an estimated $960,000 will be allocated to the 22nd Judicial Specialty Courts, which will provide a guaranteed revenue stream for these programs going forward. The remaining 90 % or $8,640,000 will fund the essential operational costs of the Justice Center Complex, the satellite offices on the East side of the Parish (the Towers Building), and operational support expenses of the Justice Center agencies which for 2017 are budgeted at $7,751,830. Any remaining revenue will be placed in an account for projected future needs or emergency expenses. All monies spent from this account will require approval by the St. Tammany Parish Council.

“This tax directly impacts our quality of life here in St. Tammany. Our specialty courts alone help to keep the jail population lowered through rehabilitation programs for non-violent offenders who need behavioral health care, drug or alcohol rehabilitation and a chance to re-enter society with the skills to become productive citizens,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “When voters made it clear that they were not ready to support a 20-year tax which included funding for future projects, we reduced the rates by 20% and cut the terms in half to create a sustainable revenue source for the next ten years to fund essential operational needs.”

“These tax renewals are vitally important to the way we protect St. Tammany,” said Randy Smith, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff. “This jail tax continuation has direct impact on the way we operate day-to-day in our Parish, and we work cooperatively with every agency in the Justice Center, so the continuation of the Justice Center tax will impact these relationships as well. We want every citizen to continue to feel safe and to obtain the help and services they need when they need them. ”

Prisoners who enter the specialty courts are less likely to be incarcerated again after the program is complete. According to the Louisiana Public Health Institute, drug court participants have a 5.4% recidivism rate after two years, compared with a 36% recidivism rate for offenders on felony probation without drug court or treatment, and a 31% recidivism rate for offenders who are incarcerated. Just over 500 prisoners completed specialty court programs in St. Tammany Parish in 2014, according to the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office.

The 22nd Judicial District Court handles over 6000 civil cases and 5,000 criminal cases a year, all with 10 judges in separate courts. The Justice Center alone houses seven different agencies with a total of 545 employees. For questions on the two tax continuations email inquiries to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Tue Jan 3

2017 Parish Christmas Tree Recycling Program

St. Tammany Parish will again accept Christmas trees for recycling. On the Western side of the Parish, residents can drop off their trees at the St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds in Covington. The Parish would like citizens to use the entrance by Lyon Elementary. On the Eastern side of the Parish, the old Levee Board building in Slidell located at 61134 Military Road is the designated drop off location. Only bare, green trees will be used; no flocked trees, no trees with ornaments, and no trees with lights will be accepted and recycled.

Trees that are placed out on the curb for trash collection may not be recycled. Contact your trash collection company to find out if they participate in a tree recycling program.

The program will begin on January 3, 2017, and the last day for dropping off trees will be January 29, 2017. Trees may be dropped off between the hours of 7:30am – 3:30pm Monday through Friday.

Mon Dec 19

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Close in Observance of Christmas

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Friday, December 23, 2016 and Monday, December 26, 2016 in observance of Christmas. The Department of Animal Services will also close Saturday, December 24, 2016. Business hours resume on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at 8 a.m.

The Tammany Trace, Kids Konnection Playground, and Camp Salmen Nature Park will close on Saturday, December 24, 2016 and Sunday, December 25, 2016.

Thu Dec 15

St. Tammany Parish Government Awarded Excellence in Financial Reporting for 13th Consecutive Year

The St. Tammany Parish Department of Finance was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada, for the 13th consecutive year. This is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting. The comprehensive annual financial report, or CAFR, is evaluated every year and the award is given based on standards reached in the report. These include, demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story, and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

“This is a testament to the meticulous and efficient work of our Finance Department, and it also speaks to the level of care Parish Government expends in the use of taxpayer dollars,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish Government. “We are pleased to have earned this prestigious recognition again.”

Wed Dec 14

Online Adjudicated Auction in St. Tammany Puts Nearly 30 Properties Back into Commerce

The St. Tammany Parish 2016 online adjudicated auction announced last May, has resulted in the placement of 26 properties back into commerce and on the tax rolls, and an estimated $300,000 in gross profit for St. Tammany Parish Government from 21 of those 26 property sales. St. Tammany Parish Government will realize additional profits following the closings of the remaining five property sales.

“In addition to fighting blight, reclaiming tax dollars, and offering the opportunity to residents to own property in St. Tammany, this auction process is an instrument to improve our quality of life both aesthetically and fiscally,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “As abandoned or neglected property is reclaimed or sold to a different owner, there is a high chance it will be improved in some way. These are not just personal investments for the new owners, they are investments into our community and will continue to make St. Tammany the vibrant and thriving place we call home.”

Interested buyers can visit www.civicsource.com to view a map, a list, or a street view of the inventory of 335 adjudicated properties currently available, and register to participate in the auction. An additional 140 properties are set to be released on December 16, 2016 and properties are added on-average, once a month. Registered users then nominate properties that will initiate the process through a $750 deposit and place the nominated property into an active auction. With CivicSourceas the auction facilitator, the final sale price of each property includes a clear title, title insurance, and closing fees. The initial $750 deposit will go toward the sale price of the winning bid. Complete details about the online auction process are available at www.civicsource.com/help, or interested buyers can call (888) 387-8033, Monday-Friday from 8a.m.-5p.m. to speak with a help representative from CivicSource and have their questions answered.

Mon Dec 12

St. Tammany Receives Hazard Mitigation Grant Monies for Spring Floods

St. Tammany Parish Government has been awarded $3,765,625.00 in Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding. The funding, which comes as result of the Spring 2016 flooding and is administered through the State of Louisiana and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, will be used for projects to protect people and property from future natural disasters. The Parish will evaluate existing risks and vulnerabilities, as well as use its Mitigation Plan to determine the best use of these critical funds.

“St. Tammany appreciates the award of this grant and will dedicate the funding to help prevent future devastation from natural disasters,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “The project, or projects, that will be funded through this dedicated grant will join a long list of Hazard Mitigation work we have completed or that is already underway. Whether its marsh restoration, drainage improvements or any number of large infrastructure projects that can help protect our citizens, we remain committed to the prevention of loss of life or property at the hands of a disaster.”

Mon Dec 12

St. Tammany Parish Water Quality Initiative Further Advanced Through EPA Grant

St. Tammany Parish Government’s ongoing Water Quality Initiative that will restore optimum water quality to specific areas that are currently categorized as deficient, has been advanced through a $300,000.00 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Gulf of Mexico Program. The Parish’s Department of Environmental Services will utilize the grant to fund a partnership with the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation (LPBF) for a project to improve water quality in specific river basins, or watersheds. The St. Tammany Parish program which is designed to improve overall public health, will conduct individual sewerage system inspections in areas of St. Tammany Parish, and will use data collected in these inspections and from other sources to determine the best course of action to restore water quality in deficient areas.

“The partnership between St. Tammany Parish Government and the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation gives Parish Government the opportunity to double our resources and our expertise, in preserving our natural resources and our beautiful Parish,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Our ultimate goal in these initiatives, is to not only provide a rich quality of life for our current residents through better water quality and increased overall public health, but to obtain the information we need to continue to improve these initiatives, so that we leave a legacy of responsible stewardship of natural resources for future generations. Additionally, we are grateful to the EPA for the grant and this implementation of the Gulf of Mexico Program”

The Water Quality Initiative has led to improved wastewater treatment through the utilization of regional wastewater treatment facilities, increased compliance of individual homeowners’ sewerage systems, and overall citizen education on responsible wastewater management. These grant-funded inspections are one component of this EPA-Gulf of Mexico Program supported grant initiative, and will allow the Parish’s Environmental Services Department to study and improve water quality in St. Tammany.

Thu Dec 8

Pat Brister Thanks Senator Cassidy and Urges Continued Support for Behavioral Healthcare

Pat Brister Thanks Senator Cassidy and Urges Continued Support for Behavioral Healthcare

The United States Congress this week passed legislation that aligns with the goals and vision for the future of St. Tammany Parish’s behavioral healthcare efforts, including Safe Haven, the Parish’s project to bring a behavioral health continuum of care campus, as well as bring the idea of a single point of entry for law enforcement, the judiciary and area hospitals, to the region. HR 34 – The 21st Century Cures Act, includes language from the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016, which was co-authored by Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy. The 21st Century Cures Act addresses mental health and substance abuse, and increases our nation’s investment in medical research.

“I want to personally thank Senator Cassidy and the entire U.S. Congress for working together to address fundamental health needs that impact every community in our great nation. But I want to especially thank Dr. Cassidy for his work that began at the outset of his senatorial career, to address the mental health care system,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “These efforts will only augment the efforts of local government to bring attention to the behavioral healthcare needs of our community, and the multiple programs in place here in St. Tammany to address the needs of our citizens at the local level. We look forward to continuing to work with Senator Cassidy in any way necessary to put the components of this bill into action when it becomes law.”

The 21st Century Cures Act includes mental health legislation that will integrate physical and mental health, strengthen transparency and the enforcement of mental health parity to ensure that mental and physical health are covered equally by insurers, establishes new programs for early intervention, improves access to mental health care for children, and provides funding for opioid treatment and prevention.

To access a fact sheet on the Mental Health Reform issues addressed in the 21st Century Cures Act, clickhere

Tue Dec 6

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day in St. Tammany Serves Over 800 Households

Keep St. Tammany Beautiful and the St. Tammany Parish Department of Environmental Services held Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day (HHW) last month at the St. Tammany Parish Government Koop Drive Campus in Mandeville. Nearly 50 volunteers collected 234 tires and a combined total of 133,450 pounds of paints and chemicals, batteries and e-waste. Over 800 households participated and just over 700 vehicles came through collections lines.

“Events like HHW Day, illustrate collaboration,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We work collectively with vendors and volunteers to offer this service at no cost to our residents so that they can properly dispose of their household hazardous waste. As a result, residents have the opportunity to lessen their waste burden, our community is cleaner, and we add to the overall quality of life for everyone.”

To see photographs from HHW Day, visit www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org. To volunteer for future Keep St. Tammany Beautiful events, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Tue Dec 6

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day in St. Tammany Serves Over 800 Households

Keep St. Tammany Beautiful and the St. Tammany Parish Department of Environmental Services held Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day (HHW) last month at the St. Tammany Parish Government Koop Drive Campus in Mandeville. Nearly 50 volunteers collected 234 tires and a combined total of 133,450 pounds of paints and chemicals, batteries and e-waste. Over 800 households participated and just over 700 vehicles came through collections lines.

“Events like HHW Day, illustrate collaboration,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We work collectively with vendors and volunteers to offer this service at no cost to our residents so that they can properly dispose of their household hazardous waste. As a result, residents have the opportunity to lessen their waste burden, our community is cleaner, and we add to the overall quality of life for everyone.”

To see photographs from HHW Day, visit www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org. To volunteer for future Keep St. Tammany Beautiful events, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Mon Dec 5

12th Annual President’s Arts Awards set for January 28, 2017

Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President, and the Commission on Cultural Affairs will present the 12th Annual President’s Arts Awards at the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center, on Saturday, January 28, 2017. Each year, the President’s Arts Awards honors local artists and arts patrons who have contributed to the culture here in St. Tammany Parish, through their work.

“Each year, when we celebrate the President’s Arts Awards, the foundational significance of the arts in our community is reinforced,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We are fortunate in that we have the distinct privilege of enjoying the talents of world-renowned artists here, so very close to home. We look forward to the development of our Cultural Arts District and Performing Arts Center — a place where these artists, as well as future generations of artists — can showcase their talents so that every person can experience the richness of the arts in many forms.”

The 2016 award winners are:

· Lifetime Achievement in the Arts – Emery Clark

· Native Son Award – Marty Sixkiller

· Visual Artist of the Year – Adam Sambola

· Culinary Artist of the Year – Michael Fredrick

· Arts Patron of the Year – Carlos Sanchez and David Fennelly

· Performing Artist of the Year – Gary Mendoza

· Literary Artist of the Year – David Armand

· Musical Artist of the Year – Bobby Ohler

· President’s Award – St. Tammany Art Association

The Arts Awards present an opportunity to recognize our local artists, musicians and performers who have achieved success in their respective fields. This year’s award recipients have been recognized regionally, nationally and internationally as special talents in their disciplines. All have made a significant contributions and commitments to the development of the arts in St. Tammany Parish.

The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 28th from 6p.m. until 8p.m. at the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center located in historic downtown Covington. Guests will be treated to food and beverages from local restaurants, live music and entertainment. For more information on this event call (985) 898-3011.

Programs are supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works.

Fri Dec 2

Alton Community Energized by Cleanup Day

The St. Tammany Parish community of Alton experienced a massive clean-up effort last month that resulted in the collection and disposal of over 300 bags of trash. Keep St. Tammany Beautiful sponsored and organized the cleanup day event in conjunction with the St. Tammany Parish Department of Inspections and Enforcement, St. Tammany Parish Councilman T.J. Smith and leaders from the community of Alton. Members of the St. Tammany Parish Government staff volunteered their time in assisting Councilman Smith, 40 members of the Alton community from local churches and neighborhoods groups, Beta Club members from Alton Elementary and their sponsor, in the collaborative collection effort. The litter that was bagged and collected was hauled away by the St. Tammany Parish Litter Abatement Program, which utilizes citizens with court-mandated community service hours. Additionally, the St. Tammany Parish Department of Public Works mobilized the following work week to cut ditches and remove weeds around street signage in the area.

“We are incredibly proud of the work of Keep St. Tammany Beautiful and all the volunteers completed in the Alton Clean-up Day,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This a wonderful beginning to our Keep St. Tammany Beautiful chapter’s efforts to improve our quality of life, while preserving the natural beauty of our Parish. This program, and many more that Parish Government spearheads, will assure the conservation of our natural resources and keep this Parish a place where businesses want to locate, and families want to raise their children.”

Keep St. Tammany Beautiful also provided volunteers and the necessary equipment like safety vests, trash bags, gloves, grabbers and bottled water. For more information on Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, visit, www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org. To sign up as a volunteer for future events sponsored by Keep St. Tammany Beautiful, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Today (December 1, 2016), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded.

If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Tue Nov 29

St. Tammany Fishing Pier Closes for Winter

The St. Tammany Fishing Pier, located at 54001 East Howze Beach Road near Slidell, will close on Thursday, December 1, 2016 for the winter season, and reopen on Wednesday, March 1, 2017. For more information on the Pier visit fishingpier.stpgov.org.

On November 29, 2016 at approximately 12:30 PM, a contractor hit one of Tammany Utilities (TU) water distribution lines. To repair the line, TU has had to turn off the water to the above customers in Bedico Creek Subdivision. As a result of the line break and subsequent pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Thursday, December 1st.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, signs placed in your neighborhood and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

On November 29, 2016 at approximately 12:30 PM, a contractor hit one of Tammany Utilities (TU) water distribution lines. To repair the line, TU has had to turn off the water to the above customers in Bedico Creek Subdivision. As a result of the line break and subsequent pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, TU is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced addresses serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Thursday, December 1st.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, signs placed in your neighborhood and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

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Thu Nov 17

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices will be Closed in Observance of Thanksgiving

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government are closed on Thursday, November 24, 2016, as well as Friday, November 25, 2016, in observance of Thanksgiving. The Department of Animal Services will also close on Saturday, November 26, 2016. Business hours for all offices resume on Monday, November 28, 2016 at 8 a.m.

Today (November 15, 2016), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded.

If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Mon Nov 14

Holiday of Lights 2016 Kicks off on Friday December 2

The Annual Holiday of Lights in St. Tammany Parish kicks off on Friday, December 2, 2016 at 5:45 on Koop Drive in Mandeville. This free event runs run for two consecutive weekends, on Friday and Saturday nights. Enjoy entertainment from local schools and areas performance groups, trees donated by Winn Dixie decorated by schools and other organizations, kiddie rides, and this year, Rudy the live Reindeer from Zoo to U will make a special guest appearance on Saturday, December 3rd at 7:30 pm.

Santa will be on-hand for pictures with the children at a cost of $15.00 each printed while you wait, and refreshments will be available for purchase. The Holiday of Lights is open the weekends of December 2 and 3, and December 9 and 10, 2016, from 6p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Koop Drive in Mandeville directly behind the Kid’s Konnection Playground.

Friday December 2, 2016

Kickoff Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President

And Santa 5:55-6:05 p.m.

Abita Springs Children’s Academie 6:05-6:30

Kehoe France 6:30 – 7p.m.

Woodlake Elementary 7 - 7:30 p.m.

Young Performers Society 7:30- 8p.m.

Frank Levy Playmakers 8-8:30 p.m.

Saturday December 3, 2016

Madison Tripp 6 -6:30 p.m.

Cedarwood School 6:30- 7p.m.

Rudy the Reindeer 7:30- 8:30 p.m.

Friday, December 9, 2016

Marigny Elementary 6-6:30 p.m.

Lancaster Elementary 6:30- 7p.m.

Northshore Home School 7-7:30 p.m.

Drama and Music 7:30- 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 10, 2016

Northlake Academy of Music Choir 6-6:45 p.m.

Northlake Performing Arts Society 6:45-7:15p.m.

Singsations 7:15-8:30 p.m.

For more information please call the Tammany Trace Trailhead at 985-867-9490.

Due to the failure of a well pump, the Northridge Water System lost pressure on Thursday November 10, 2016. As a result of the pressure loss and in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, Tammany Utilities (TU) is issuing a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY for the above referenced subdivisions serviced by this water system.

Once water service is restored and out of an abundance of caution, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. Because of the Veterans Day Holiday, TU is uncertain of when the LDH laboratory will be able to return sample results. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Saturday, November 12th and the latest, Tuesday, November 15th.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices, signs placed throughout the neighborhood and posts to the Parish’s social media sites and webpage. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

St. Tammany Parish officials announced today that long-standing traffic challenges on Louisiana Highway 22 in Madisonville are set to be addressed beginning Monday, November 21, 2016. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) in cooperation with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD), will implement a temporary drawbridge opening schedule and traffic study. The Madisonville drawbridge will remain closed during the week, at 8 a.m., 5 pm., and 6p.m. and open on the hour for the remainder of the day through 7p.m. It will open on signal between 7p.m. – 6a.m. On weekends, the bridge will open every hour from 6 a.m. -7p.m. At the same time, three separate traffic studies will begin at the intersection of Main Street and Louisiana Highway 22 (Mulberry Street), including the installation of a traffic signal in lieu of a four-way stop sign.

These temporary changes are part of a plan to determine what permanent solutions to traffic challenges — both marine and automobile— will ultimately be implemented. “It is gratifying to me to see agencies working together to face challenges in our community,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “It is through these collaborative efforts that we find lasting solutions. While these measures are temporary, they are part of a bigger effort to permanently resolve this problem. We appreciate the patience of motorists and mariners as we work on this issue.”

“For District 4, this traffic is a concern that residents have brought to me since the start of my term as their Councilman,” said Mike Lorino, St. Tammany Parish Councilman, District 4. “I would like to thank the USCG, the LADOTD, Senator Jack Donahue, Representatives Schroder and Falconer, and Mayor Pelloat for their enduring efforts to begin to find solutions through working together. And I would like to thank residents and boaters, in advance, for their patience as we work toward a permanent solution. We realize that everyone is affected, and we will do our best to find an all-encompassing resolution. ”

“I am very excited about the new temporary closure times for the Madisonville Bridge. This change is designed to improve traffic flow through the Town of Madisonville during peak drive-time hours without a significant impact on our river boaters,” said Jean Pelloat, Mayor of Madisonville. “I am equally pleased with the three planned studies to be conducted over the next several months in cooperation with St. Tammany Parish Government, LADOTD, our State representatives and the USCG. I would like to thank everyone who has been working so diligently to improve the traffic flow through our community and trust that the upcoming studies will produce a permanent solution that will be embraced by both land transportation and water vessel traffic.”

The deviation in the drawbridge schedule will run through May of 2017, and the traffic studies will occur during the same timeframe.

Fri Nov 4

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Scheduled for November 12, 2016 in St. Tammany

On Saturday, November 12, 2016, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., plan to bring your Household Hazardous Waste to 21490 Koop Drive in Mandeville, for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day 2016. Please bring your patience too, as this event attracts lots of people. This event is a program ofKeep St. Tammany Beautiful, open to St. Tammany Parish residents, and provides an opportunity for residents of St. Tammany to dispose of their Household Hazardous Waste at no cost. To view the flyer for specifics on what will be accepted, visit www.keepsttammanybeautiful.org/events.

To volunteer for Keep St. Tammany Beautiful please email you contact information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Tue Nov 1

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed for Election Day and Veterans Day

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Tuesday, November 8, 2016 for the Open Primary/ Presidential/ Congressional election. Regular business hours will resume on Wednesday, November 9, 2016, at 8 a.m.

Offices will also be closed on Friday, November 11, 2016 in observance of Veterans Day. The Department of Animal Services will be closed on Saturday, November 12, 2016 as well. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, November 14, 2016 at 8 a.m.

October BOA

The St. Tammany Parish Board of Adjustment shall hear testimony for and/or against the following variance/appeal cases brought before it for the Tuesday, November 1, 2016 Board of Adjustment meeting at 3:00PM, located on the 3ird Floor of Building “B”, conference room, in the St. Tammany Parish Government Complex, 21454 Koop Drive, Parish Council Chambers, Mandeville, Louisiana:

BOA CASE NO. 2016-442-BOA

Request by applicant for a variance of a rear yard setback requirement in an A-4 Single Family Residential zoning district from 25' required to approximately 22' requested. The property is located at 1001 River Court, Mandeville, Louisiana.

Applicant: Michael S. Cyr

BOA CASE NO. 2016-443-BOA

Request by applicant for variances of monument sign requirements in an MD-1 Medical Residential zoning district for border width from 2' permitted to approximately 12.4' requested and sign area from a maximum of 32 square feet permitted to approximately 81 square feet requested. The property is located at 601 Holy Trinity Drive, Mandeville, Louisiana.

Applicant: St. Anthonys Garden

BOA CASE NO. 2016-444-BOA

Request by applicant for a variance of landscaping requirements in a NC-4 Neighborhood Commercial Institutional zoning district. The property is located at 2235 9th Street, Mandeville, Louisiana.

Applicant: Kifayat Khan, P.E. (for Perverz Mussarat)

BOA CASE NO. 2016-445-BOA

Request by applicant for a variance of a front yard setback requirement in an A-2 Suburban zoning district from 50' required to approximately 44' requested. The property is located at 24455 Azalea Lane, Lacombe, Louisiana.

On Wednesday, September 28, 2016, the St. Tammany Parish Council introduced two ordinances for adoption of the 2017 Parish Operating Budget, and the 2017-2021 Parish Capital Improvement Budget and Program. Copies of both budgets will be made available for review by October 3, 2016 at the Parish Council Office and the following Parish Library Branches: Abita Springs, Bush, Causeway, Covington, Folsom, Lacombe, Lee Road, Madisonville, Mandeville, Pearl River, Slidell Robert Blvd, South Slidell. To view the Parish’s paper-less version of the proposed budgets, it is available online on the Parish’s website (http://www.stpgov.org/departments/finance).

Budget hearings are scheduled at 6pm on Tuesday, October 18, 2016 and Wednesday, October 19, 2016. The Parish Council will also take public comments concerning both budgets during its regularly scheduled monthly Council Meeting, in Council Chambers at 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 3, 2016 prior to voting on the proposed budgets.

A relatively low-tech method of imitating a natural marshland was implemented to help clean freshwater ponds contaminated by stormwater runoff. This research is being funded by St. Tammany Parish Government in cooperation with scientists at Southeastern Louisiana University and the wetlands assimilation company Comite Resources, Inc.

The effort is intended to improve water quality throughout St. Tammany through several water quality initiatives. Included is a project in the Del Sol subdivision of Covington that utilizes an innovative, yet relatively low-tech method of imitating a natural marshland that will help clean freshwater ponds contaminated by stormwater runoff. The $222,000 pilot project is a component of the newly initiated St. Tammany Parish stormwater management plan, a project that was launched to help the Parish determine the most efficient and effective methods to retrofit other stormwater retention ponds, turning them into water quality enhancers, according to Parish officials.

“Improving water quality and our environment in the Parish are crucial,” said St. Tammany Parish President Pat Brister. “As we continue to research and implement the latest, most effective strategies to address pollution and stormwater runoff problems, we will continue to make great strides in improving the overall quality of our water throughout the entire community. Success will also make this pilot project replicable throughout St. Tammany and mimicked throughout the country.”

Members of the Water Environment Federation,a not-for-profit technical and educational organization representing water quality professionals around the world, who are in New Orleans for the Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference during the week of September 24-28, 2016, toured the natural marshland site in the Del Sol neighborhood, as a conference activity, to learn about Best Management Practices that are being applied to existing stormwater ponds. Registrants who attended that tour were from throughout the United States, as well as Singapore and Mexico.

The project is being funded by the parish and implemented by Southeastern Louisiana University wetlands expert and Professor Gary Shaffer and graduate student Zach Leggett who are working with Racheal Hunter of Comite Resources, Inc. based in Zachary, La.

Rainwater runoff enters the Del Sol pond from three directions, carrying with it sediment, oils, tar, fertilizers and herbicides that accumulate in the subdivision’s watershed and contaminate the pond.

Leggett and Shaffer are evaluating the cleaning effects of a man-made floating marsh in the eight-acre pond. Leggett’s hands-on project is the focus of his master’s thesis at Southeastern.

“The floating plants take out the excess nutrients and turbidity, or cloudiness, in the water, including fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and other materials that can be harmful to water quality,” Leggett said.

Last fall, Leggett and his team constructed a star-shaped, eight-armed frame of PVC piping with four-foot wide vinyl coated crab wire between the piping that acts as a platform and serves as a supporting structure for marsh plants, such as maidencane, arrowhead and spider lily. The plants attached to the netting, serve as a natural filtering mechanisms for the pond water. The predominant water plant used in the structure is maidencane, an inexpensive plant that is easily propagated in the University’s greenhouses before being transplanted into the frame.

“The maidencane roots are full of gas, so the plants tend to float on top; this makes it ideal for this kind of structure,” explained Shaffer. “Maidencane is a good plant for this purpose; the roots grow about 20 inches deep and suck up the excess nutrients in the water and help clean the pond. As an added benefit, the structure also becomes a huge refuge for small fish and other species.”

While water quality tests are only in the early stages, Shaffer said the pond has become much clearer with a huge reduction in turbidity, or cloudiness. In addition, he said, the frames are full of minnows and juvenile fish, which greatly improves the ecosystem function of the pond.

“We expect the turbidity and nutrient levels at the site will be significantly reduced, which means we would be successful in our efforts to remove the contaminants and clear the water,” said Leggett. “And it would tell us whether maidencane is the ideal plant for this process.”

Hundreds of ponds in St. Tammany Parish are in need of water quality improvement, according to Parish officials. The Parish’s floating marshlands project, if successful, will play a significant and relatively inexpensive role in improving water quality. “

The research project and its final report are expected to be completed in 2017 after the plants have completely covered the platform.

###

Photos: Marshland Del Sol: Southeastern Louisiana University biological sciences graduate student Zachary Leggett ties plants to a floating platform he constructed that will serve as a floating marshland to help clean stormwater contamination in the Del Sol subdivision in St. Tammany Parish. Del Sol Tour: Members of the Water Environment Federation,a not-for-profit technical and educational organization representing water quality professionals around the world, in New Orleans for the Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference tour the natural marshland site in the Del Sol neighborhood.

Sun Sep 18

St. Tammany Parish Government Urges Citizens To Avoid Bogue Chitto River Until Cleared by State Health Experts After Mississippi Sewerage Spill

St. Tammany Parish Government Urges Citizens To Avoid Bogue Chitto River Until Cleared by State Health Experts After Mississippi Sewerage Spill

As a precautionary measure, St. Tammany Parish Government is strongly urging its citizens and visitors to temporarily cease swimming, wading and fishing in the Bogue Chitto River. Parish Government has been in contact with State regulatory agencies and will await the results of the State’s river testing, and more importantly the clearance of the river for any potential adverse health risks. St. Tammany is also asking its citizens to look for updates from the Louisiana Department of Health, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and Parish Government as the situation progresses.

The advisory is a direct result of a spill of six million gallons of stormwater and sewerage that was caused by a levee breach on the Bogue Chitto River near Brookhaven, MS. The Mississippi and Louisiana Departments of Environmental Quality, and the Louisiana Department of Health have all issued a “Water Contact Advisory” for the river on both sides of the state line.

New Format for FEMA Elevation Certificates Now Available

In keeping with the guidelines set forth by FEMA, St. Tammany Parish Government is working to incorporate the newest format of the FEMA Elevation Certificate, in order to comply with FEMA guidelines, by 2017. The new format of the FEMA Elevation Certificate is now available for inspectors and land surveyors, here. An original copy of this document is required by St. Tammany Parish Government in order to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy for new residential and commercial construction, for homes and businesses that are located within a flood zone.

Elevation Certificate formats from 2012 and 2015 will still be accepted through December 31, 2016. Beginning January 1, 2017, only the newest format of the Elevation Certificates will be accepted. Residents and contractors can obtain complete information on the permitting process at www.stpgov.org/departments/permits.

Mon Sep 12

Site Work Permits Requirements Begin on September 16, 2016 in St. Tammany Parish for Non-Residential Sites

Site Work Permits Requirements Begin on September 16, 2016 in St. Tammany Parish for Non-Residential Sites

Beginning Friday, September 16, 2016, a Site Work Permit will be required for all non-residential sites in unincorporated St. Tammany, as pursuant to St. Tammany Code of Ordinances Chapter 7, Sections 7-002.00, and SEC. 7-050.00. Parish Officials implemented the Site Work Permits to address and prevent adverse drainage impacts on neighbors of new construction sites. This permit is for any work that alters the surface of the property through paving, grading, excavation, or placement of fill. A Site Work Permit is defined as: A permit issued for paving, grading, excavation, or placement of fill on a site within unincorporated St. Tammany Parish. This permit is needed if the proposed site improvements are not already being reviewed as part of a properly issued building permit or subdivision work order.

Once a permit has been applied for, the St. Tammany Parish Department of Planning and Development will review the permit, send an inspector to the site, and issue the permit. Upon completion of the project, the builder must submit a survey that confirms their compliance with the provisions of the ordinance. The Department of Planning and Development will then complete a final drainage inspection to verify compliance, and upon verification, a certificate of occupancy can be issued.

Applicants can apply for a Site Work Permit in person at the Department of Development located at 21454 Koop Drive in Mandeville, or online at mypermitsnow.org.

The St. Tammany Commission on Cultural Affairs announces the Decentralized Arts Funding grant awards for the 2016-2017 cultural season. The St. Tammany Commission on Cultural Affairs administers the DAF Program for both St. Tammany and St. Bernard Parishes. The grants include awards for cultural projects and organizational support, which provides direct support for arts organizations’ full seasons of work.

St. Tammany Parish

Organizational Support

Slidell Little Theatre

$7,200

St. Tammany Art Association

$6,125

Playmakers, Inc.

$5,250

City of Slidell’s Department of Cultural & Public Affairs

$3,000

Project Assistance

STARC of Louisiana, Inc.

$3,750

City of Mandeville

$3,350

Slidell Heritage Foundation

$2,850

Covington Three Rivers Art Festival

$2,438

City of Covington, Office of Cultural Arts & Events

$2,000

St. Bernard Parish

Project Assistance

St. Bernard Parish Public Schools

$2,500

St. Bernard Parish Library

$2,000

St. Bernard Parish Government

$1023

The purpose of the Decentralized Arts Funding program is to provide funding for arts and cultural projects in every parish of the state. Applicants compete only with other organizations in their parish and decisions are made locally by a diverse review panel comprised of members of the local community. The Decentralized Arts Funding Program is supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council as administered by St. Tammany Parish Government.

“We have a deep appreciation for the arts here in St. Tammany as the arts are vital to our heritage and our identity,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “So many of our locals — born and raised here have gone on to share their artistic talents worldwide. We want the next generation to have the same opportunities to come into their artistic fullness, and this is one small way we can work towards that goal.”

Guidelines for next year’s Decentralized Arts Funding program will be available in March 2017, and the Commission on Cultural Affairs will conduct informational workshops to assist applicants. For more information, call 985-867-5095 or visit http://www.stpgov.org/arts-grants .

Thu Sep 1

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Labor Day

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Monday, September 5, 2016 in observance of Labor Day. In addition, the Department of Animal Services will be closed on Saturday, September 3, 2016 as well. Regular business hours resume on Tuesday, September 6, 2016 at 8 a.m.

Thu Aug 25

STPCares.org is Live

Following the announcement one week ago by St. Tammany Parish political, business, religious and community leaders of a collective response effort to pool resources and help those affected by the recent flooding, the website www.stpcares.org is live.

“The St. Tammany Community has responded extremely well to our calls for help, and we are grateful,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We want to remind everyone however, that the recovery process is long and needs are abundant, so we ask that our residents visit www.stpcares.org and make the decision to help.”

The website offers options to give of your time, manpower, resources and /or money. There is a way to contact the STPCares administration to offer housing options, resources for those rebuilding, and free or reduced-cost professional services that will benefit flood victims. There are also options to sign up to volunteer with various organizations, or to make monetary contributions to various organizations.

STPCares Will aid in Relief Effort for St. Tammany and Neighboring Communities

Government, community and business leaders came together today to announce STPCares — Community Flood Response. This collective response effort will pool resources to help those affected recover faster and stronger than they would by isolated efforts. It will offer to citizens a clearinghouse of trusted resources from which to donate and volunteer.

Officials from St. Tammany Parish Government, St. Tammany Parish Public Schools, the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Tammany Economic Development Foundation, the East St. Tammany Chamber, the St. Tammany West Chamber, the Northshore Homebuilder’s Association, the Northshore Business Council, the Northshore Community Foundation, and several other agencies, were on-hand to pledge participation and support of this unified effort which will be managed by Kevin Davis, the former Director of the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.

“While in a Bible study, we started talking about our community and our residents coupled with the surrounding communities, and we knew we had to offer help,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We, as Louisianans, do not sit idly by as our neighbors struggle. When we are faced with this level of destruction and loss, our people seek to lighten the burden when we can. We step in if we are able, and those of us who were spared, help the broken become whole again.”

The St. Tammany Parish Public School System will provide a physical space and administrative help to STPCares while it is in operation. Partnerships and aide could include: shared manpower, use of Parish facilities and resources, temporary housing and monetary help.

To reach STPCares visit www.stpgov.org/STPCares . To contact STPCares to offer help call 985-898-3215 or email, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

St. Tammany Parish has received a disaster declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This declaration makes Federal funding available to affected individuals. If you are a resident of St. Tammany, and your home or business was damaged by flood waters over the past week, you may qualify for FEMA assistance.

“This is another avenue for possible relief for St. Tammany Parish residents who need help after the weekend’s flooding,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We appreciate being added to the declared disaster and we urge all our citizens who have received damage to call FEMA or go online to register.”

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov. Disaster assistance applicants, who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

St. Tammany Parish Government will begin to transition from response to recovery for the current flooding disaster. The following actions will be implemented today:

1. Parish’s Emergency Operations Center will be ramping down and closed

2. Disaster Shelter at Coquille Sports Complex will be closed

3. St. Tammany Parish Public Works and Engineering will begin conducting assessments of road and bridge damage

4. Department of Inspections and Enforcement will make plans for Preliminary Damage Assessment teams to cover the Parish to document damage to homes and structures beginning tomorrow morning at 7:30a.m.

Parish President Pat Brister has waived the permit fees for rebuilding resident’s homes that sustained damage as a result of the flooding over the last several days. Parish President Brister has also reached out to Tangipahoa Parish President Robbie Miller to offer assistance of St. Tammany Parish Government’s damage assessment teams. Several of St. Tammany Parish Government employees will be providing technical support to augment the effort of Tangipahoa Parish.

St. Tammany Parish residents that have sustained damage from this flooding event are asked to contact Parish Government via email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or by calling 985-898-2700, and leaving a message with name, street address and contact telephone number.

Sat Aug 13

Emergency Shelter Open in St. Tammany Parish

St. Tammany Parish Government will open an American Red Cross emergency shelter at Coquille Recreation located at 13505 Louisiana 1085 in Covington, at 12:30 p.m. today. Occupants should bring food, bedding and any necessary medications. Alcohol is not allowed.

Fri Aug 12

Sandbag Distribution in St. Tammany Parish Friday, August 12, 2016 and Saturday, August 13, 2016

Sandbag Distribution in St. Tammany Parish Friday, August 12, 2016 and Saturday, August 13, 2016

Based on current National Weather Service rain predictions of the possibility of flooding, St. Tammany Parish Government will distribute sandbags at the following locations on Friday, August 12, 2016 from 4:30 p.m. - 9 p.m., and on Saturday, August 13, 2016, from 7 a.m. – 7p.m.

Residents are asked to clear any debris from culverts and drainage pathways, and to monitor the weather forecast in the coming days through your local media outlets. St. Tammany Parish Government will have updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thu Aug 11

Public Input Meetings will Augment Information Collection for the Community Needs Assessment

The St. Tammany Parish Department of Health and Human Services is currently conducting a Community Needs Assessment. This assessment will provide baseline data and analysis so that Parish Government, as well as the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and its partners, can establish needs-based priorities, set goals, and develop a community services strategy.

The public is invited to attend one of the following Public Input meetings to offer opinions that will be part of the compiled data.

St. Tammany Parish Department of Health and Human Services is also collecting information through an online Community Needs Assessment Survey which will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. Your participation is greatly appreciated.

District 5 Community Meeting

Councilman Toledano is holding a District 5 Community Meeting on Monday, August 15th at 6:00PM in Council Chambers at 21490 Koop Dr., Mandeville to discuss Zoning Case 2016-294-ZC and Zoning Case 2016-295-ZC.

Wed Jul 27

Applicants Sought for St. Tammany Fire District 12 Board of Commissioners Appointment

Resumes are being accepted now from individuals who wish to be considered for a board position on the St. Tammany Fire District 12 Board of Commissioners. The commission plays a crucial role in providing guidance, input and oversight to the governing structure of Fire District 12. The positions are strictly volunteer, require a time commitment, and a willingness to invest the volunteer’s knowledge, expertise and service. Individuals with experience in finance and accounting are preferred. The Board of Commissioners hold regular meetings, generally on the second Thursday of every month. Applicants must reside within the boundaries of District 12.

Interested applicants should send a resume to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for consideration by Friday, August 12, 2016.

Tue Jul 26

St. Tammany Parish Government Department of Technology Earns Top Ten Ranking in the Nation Sixth Year in a Row

The St. Tammany Parish Department of Technology has been ranked in the top four counties in the nation by the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Digital Survey Awards, in counties with populations of 150,000-249,999. This 2016 recognition marks the sixth consecutive year that the St. Tammany Parish Department of Technology has been recognized.

This survey identifies the very best examples of how Counties/Parishes make the most of the resources they have at their disposal and use them for digitizing government, including open data and transparency, cybersecurity, procurement, content resource management, emergency preparedness and business continuity. The Center for Digital Government considers the counties recognized as the most innovative and pioneering in the country.

“Our Technology Department team remains on the cutting edge. St. Tammany Parish Government has embraced technology as a tool to increase efficiency in all areas of government,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “Internally, we continue to innovate our systems so that we can increase our operational speed, and save taxpayers money, and externally, we continue to innovate the systems the public will utilize to interact with government, therefore decreasing their wait times and trips into Parish offices.”

Rick Loggins, Director of the St. Tammany Parish Government Department of Technology, attributes all of the recognition to the staff of the Technology Department, a highly skilled and committed workforce, President Brister and the executive leadership for their support in fostering a culture of innovation with a customer service orientation, and the support of the St Tammany Parish Council.

“Technology is ever-changing, and so as such, we remain focused on integrating those changes into our systems to achieve optimal usage by our Parish Government employees, as well as optimal usage by our customers,” Loggins said. “Our goal is to make our services in every area, as user-friendly as possible. As we succeed, our residents ultimately benefit. ”St. Tammany Parish Government Department of Technology Ranked Earns Top Ten Ranking in the Nation Sixth Year in a Row

Mon Jul 18

Tammany Trace Closures Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 2016

The Tammany Trace will close in two locations on Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 2016, from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Between Mandeville and Lacombe, the Trace will close between Bremerman Road and John’s Road. In Lacombe, the Trace will close between South 17th Street and South 12th Street. These closures are to address causes related to cracking throughout the Trace and to aid in the repair of these cracks. Trace users should be prepared to go around these areas. Thank you.

Tammany Trace Closures Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 2016

The Tammany Trace will close in two locations on Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 2016, from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Between Mandeville and Lacombe, the Trace will close between Bremerman Road and John’s Road. In Lacombe, the Trace will close between South 17th Street and South 12th Street. These closures are to address causes related to cracking throughout the Trace and to aid in the repair of these cracks. Trace users should be prepared to go around these areas. Thank you.

Tammany Trace Closures Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 2016

The Tammany Trace will close in two locations on Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21, 2016, from 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Between Mandeville and Lacombe, the Trace will close between Bremerman Road and John’s Road. In Lacombe, the Trace will close between South 17th Street and South 12th Street. These closures are to address causes related to cracking throughout the Trace and to aid in the repair of these cracks. Trace users should be prepared to go around these areas. Thank you.

District 9 Community Meeting

The next Community Meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 and will start at 7:00 p.m. in the cafeteria of Boyet Jr. High School, on Rebel Drive (off Pearl St., off E. Gause Blvd.)

At these meetings, there will be a set agenda, but items may be added. If you have an issue, please contact me in advance so I can research the issue and add it to the agenda. Please send all e-mail correspondence to this address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The primary topics for the meeting will be: a discussion by Fire Chief Chris Kaufmann covering the current millage and budget issues; State Senator Sharon Hewitt to discuss the 2016 five month legislative marathon and other senate district issues; discuss the status of the Keep St. Tammany Beautiful (KTSB) program that will establish litter campaigns in our area and Parish; discuss 6 month moratorium on building permits for the Oak Downs Subdivision and discuss the June 21st Town Hall Meeting covering area flooding discussions by the National Weather Service and other agencies.

Also, provide an update on 2016 capital projects in District 9 and other local and parish wide projects.

The next District 9 Community Meeting will be held on September 6, 2016.

Thu Jul 14

Design Team Selection Announced for St. Tammany Parish Cultural Arts District

St. Tammany Parish introduced the architectural design team led by Wilson Butler Architects, who have been selected to design the Parish's proposed Cultural Arts District. The Parish selected the team several months ago to begin the design process and provide expertise in determining the scope and vision for this long-term project.

“This Cultural Arts District will invigorate the economy here in St. Tammany Parish, add another essential component to our exceptional quality of life, enhance arts education, and provide a place that will create jobs and commerce,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We realize that the recent developments in Baton Rouge may have changed our course, but they have not derailed our long-term vision. As we adjust for these circumstances, we will continue to work to provide a home for the arts and a place that will serve our children's needs into the future, and that will have the most profound generational impact.”

"We have a great program, a realistic budget and an absolutely gorgeous site," said Scott Wilson, Director of Boston- based Wilson Butler Architects. "The hallmark of a successful process is the people — bringing it all together creating an arts center that will be cherished for 100 years. Our design team is exceptional and, I must add, the Parish leadership and management team seem outstanding as well. All together, tremendous success is inevitable."

While the Cultural Arts Districts is currently in the conceptual phase, the architectural team, as well as the internal St. Tammany Parish Government team, is utilizing the findings of a feasibility study conducted in 2014, input from potential user groups, the public and stakeholders, to develop programming and begin the design phase to satisfy those needs. Programming is expected to include live concerts of every musical genre, festivals, art exhibits and theatre performances. In addition, the Performing Arts Center, slated to anchor the District, will be multifaceted to include an educational component, as well as enable the arts community, the business community and the private sector, to access the facility for various uses like large-scale exhibitions, seminars and speakers, and private events. The educational component of the facility will focus on the youth in St. Tammany and offer programming designed around fostering the innate talent of school-aged children.

The natural landscape of the Tchefuncte River and the thick tree canopy are central design features and will be incorporated into the project at every level. In addition to the Performing Arts Center — nature trails, the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany, and a full-service hotel and restaurant are among the many amenities the District will encompass.

Today (July 8, 2016), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 643-1376.

Fri Jul 8

Statement from Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President

“We are heartbroken by the events of this week in Baton Rouge, Minnesota and last night in Dallas. We will support and defend our law enforcement officers who protect our citizens day in and day out, with their very lives. Leadership, at every level, must come together with members of law enforcement, residents in our communities, religious leaders and each other, to find a solution to the violence in our country. Our prayers are with all of the families who lost their loved ones this week in these incidents.”

Thu Jul 7

Single Family New Construction Permit Numbers at a Nine-Year High in St. Tammany Parish

Single family new construction permit numbers reached their highest numbers in nine years, during the month of June, 2016, in St. Tammany Parish. The number, 144, also represents a 56 % increase from the same month in 2015, and a 26% increase from last month — May, 2016.

“These numbers are an indication that the economy in St. Tammany is strong, diverse and attractive and people wish to be a part of it,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “It also speaks to our processes here in St. Tammany Parish Government. We strive to make obtaining a permit as efficient as possible because we realize that time is of great value to everyone. St. Tammany is a desirable place to call home, and these numbers certainly reinforce that sentiment.”

On Thursday June, 30, 2016, beginning at 8:30 AM, Tammany Utilities (TU) will be repairing a leaking water main along Cross Gates Boulevard. The work will require that the water be turned off to Tammany Utilities customers in the limited area along Willow Wood Drive, Goldenwood Drive and Cross Gates Boulevard, shown below. Service will be restored by 5 PM Thursday June 30, 2016.

Once water service is restored, out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health and Hospital regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Friday, July 1st.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 643-1376.

Wed Jun 29

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of July 4th

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed on Monday, July 4, 2016, in observance of Independence Day. In addition, the Department of Animal Services will be closed on Saturday, July 2, 2016. Offices will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at 8 a.m.

Thu Jun 23

Plans for Safe Haven Campus in Mandeville Rolled Out

St. Tammany Parish Government, in conjunction with Kurt Salmon, a leading Health Care consultant firm, unveiled the strategic plans for the Parish's Safe Haven Campus earlier this week at a Town Hall meeting. Parish President Pat Brister opened the public meeting by articulating her vision for the future of behavioral healthcare on the campus. The purpose of the meeting was to share with the community, the culmination of the planning efforts by the Safe Haven Task Force and stakeholder interviews. The presentation included an overview of the planning process, a discussion of the current state of behavioral health, both on a national level and in St. Tammany, the Safe Haven vision and goals, and the Safe Haven Campus Master Plan.

“In 2012, when the State of Louisiana announced the closure of Southeast Hospital — the state of Behavioral Health services in St. Tammany was dire,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “However, what once seemed like a curse — the end of available behavioral health services in our community — turned into the inspired beginning of our vision of a model for the continuum of care of behavioral health services. We will capitalize on the partnerships that assisted us in saving behavioral healthcare in the Parish to further the vision of Safe Haven.”

Brister went on to say, "This campus and its operations will be a gold standard for other communities across the country to emulate. More importantly, the people we care about, who need assistance, will get the help they deserve. This is a systemic problem, requiring all agencies to work collaboratively while keeping the patient at the center of all of our decisions and actions."

The proposed Safe Haven timeline includes the planning and design of behavioral healthcare that will allow patients to be offered all the services they might need through partnerships borne out of the launch of Safe Haven. Additionally, remediation and renovation of the current buildings on campus will provide a home to multiple agencies in order to provide critical services in a convenient location. The remediation and renovations of the main facilities are expected to begin in early 2017, with two facilities operational — the NAMI drop-In Center, and the Family Promise Day Center — by mid-2017. The first phase of the long-term strategy will include crisis intervention and healing services centers which are expected to be fully operational by 2019.

The Safe Haven Campus is located at the site of the former Southeast Louisiana Hospital in Mandeville. The vision of Safe Haven is as follows: Safe Haven will provide a collaborative healing environment for the behavioral health continuum by creating a high-quality, coordinated, sustainable and humane network of care anchored in St. Tammany Parish.

To learn more about the project and updates on the progress of the facility, visit www.safehavenstp.org.

St. Tammany Parish Government Will Not Increase Millage Rate

St. Tammany Parish Government will not increase property taxes in 2016, through a millage rate increase. Parish Government will adopt the adjusted millages set by the assessor’s office.

“Parish Government will not raise property taxes this year through a millage increase,” Said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “We are accountable for every tax dollar that we take in, and as such, it is important that residents know that we continue to work within our means as we have since the start of my administration. We have not increased our millage rate since 2006.”

“The St. Tammany Parish Council does not take taxation lightly, and we thoroughly consider the implications that come with a millage increase,” said Marty Dean, St. Tammany Parish Council Chairman. “Therefore, we will not adopt a millage rate increase, but we will adopt the adjusted millages set by the St. Tammany Assessor’s Office.”

Fri Jun 10

PRECAUTIONARY BOIL ADVISORY Alton Community in Slidell Alton Water System (PWS 1103145)

On Friday, June 10, 2016, at approximately 5:30 PM, an electrical issue caused the Alton Water System to lose pressure. Once water service is restored, out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health and Hospital regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for Tammany Utilities customers in the Alton Community.

This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Tuesday, June 14th.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated phone call, signs placed throughout the neighborhood and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 643-1376.

Fri Jun 10

World Changers Return to St. Tammany Parish for a Fifth Year

For five consecutive days,beginning Monday,June 13,volunteers from the Lifewaygroup, WorldChangers, will give new life to thehomes of low to moderate-income families in St. Tammany Parish. This year, the World Changers group includes 140 participants, from nine different churches and six different states —Texas, Missouri, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia. The homeowners were selected through an application process,and many are disabled and/orelderly. Residences who will receive repairs are located in Abita Springs, Covington, Lacombe, and Madisonville and unincorporated St. Tammany Parish. This is the fifth year the group has worked with St. Tammany Parish Government.

“World Changers every year, comes here and improves the lives of those who need it most, and we are so grateful for their presence,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “This is an example of why we value collaboration here in St. Tammany, because when we work together — public, faith-based and private organizations — and bring our strengths together, so much is accomplished, and so many people’s lives are impacted in a positive way.”

Dr. Bill Boren, Family Life Pastor at First Baptist Church Covingtonand Project Coordinator for the local project added,“This World Changers project is a great opportunity for partnership between theNorthshore Baptist Association of Churches and local Parish Government. It is wonderful to see how we can work together to help our community. By the end of the week, St. Tammany Parish, a wonderful place to live, will be even better. World Changers is a wonderful picture of faith in action.”Many of the local churches are supporting the event by providing lunch each day to the volunteers at the worksites.The studentswill be housed at First Baptist Church of Covington for the week.

Approximately $25,000 in materials used to complete the repairs,like lumber, paint, windows and doors,are purchased through a Community Development Block Grant (CBDG).Repairs and improvements to the homes included building ramps and decks, replacing siding, doors and windows, pressure washing, tree trimming and landscaping. On average,the expense for participating students to volunteer and take part in this project is $300,an expense incurred solely by the volunteers.By harnessing the enthusiasm and dedication of volunteers,the Parish’s investment yields a great impact,both economically and socially, to the community.

The Hokie Gajan Family Fishing Rodeo Coming up at the St. Tammany Parish Fishing Pier

The annual St. Tammany Parish Fishing Pier Hokie Gajan Family Fishing Rodeo is Saturday, June 18, 2016.This year the event will honor the late Hokie Gajan, Northshore native and lover of all things bound to nature. Come and meet Hokie’s family, create some of your own fish stories, support the St. Tammany Parish Fishing Pier, and Honor Hokie’s passion.

St. Tammany Parish Government has partnered with the Gajan family and Gajan’s Got Game, the foundation Hokie’s family started in his name. Sponsors of the rodeo include, Pro Printers and Sportsmen’s Warehouse. Registration begins at 6 a.m. and weigh-in is at noon. Entry fees are $10 for everyone 12 and older, and $5 for everyone under the age of 12. Cash and checks are the only forms of payment that will be accepted. Prizes will be awarded to the top two fish in each of the six categories, in each age group (adult and child). Weighmaster’s Top Pick will also be awarded. Complete rules as well as the registration form can be found atwww.sttammanyfishingpier.com. For additional information call 985-649-1922. The St. Tammany Parish Fishing Pier is owned and operated by St. Tammany Parish Government. It is located near Slidell at 54001 East Howze Beach Road.

Fri Jun 3

Partners Launch Tammany Trails

St. Tammany Parish Government as well as the Louisiana Office of State Parks and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries were on-hand today at Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville, to kick off Tammany Trails. Tammany Trails is a co-branding partnership between local, State and Federal Agencies to promote the green and blue trails, both primitive and improved, throughout our entire Parish no matter the agency they fall under. This initiative also seeks to form partnerships among agencies at all levels to focus on recreation, conservation, tourism and economic development. Through an online presence, Tammany Trails will provide mapping and other resources related to the navigation of the trails. In addition, Tammany Trails will incrementally implement signage on the greenways and blueways throughout St. Tammany.

“This is a collective mission that is multidimensional and will achieve multiple objectives,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “And I want to commend our partner agencies for their enthusiasm and participation. St. Tammany is often known for setting a pace in our State on innovation and Tammany Trails is no exception. Our natural resources are one of our most valuable assets, not just in St. Tammany, but throughout the entire State of Louisiana, so to work together to raise awareness about how they enhance our unparalleled quality of life, and to give our children and their children this gift to utilize, care for, and conserve — this will impact our community on several levels for generations.”

“Our State Parks are treasured amenities in Louisiana, and to raise awareness about the possibilities that are open to families, tourists and anyone who just wishes to enjoy nature, is a great thing for our state,” said Billy Nungesser, Lieutenant Governor of the State of Louisiana. “We welcome this initiative and stand with St. Tammany Parish Government and our partner agencies as together we build on the future of Tammany Trails.”

“Any initiative that increases access to the outdoors is a program that our agency will rally behind,” said Charlie Melancon, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. “We are proud to partner with St. Tammany Parish and the Tammany Trails program to encourage access to the many miles of trails and waterways in the Parish.”

The benefits of co-branding trail ways include: increased visibility, added tourism opportunities, conservation of these natural resources and the economic impact of having such a wealth of available outdoor recreational opportunities to locals and visitors alike. As lagniappe, the formation of these partnerships at all levels of government can have great impact on this effort when working as one. To learn more about Tammany Trails, visit www.tammanytrails.org.

The following partner agencies thus far:

§ St. Tammany Parish Government – The mission of St. Tammany Parish Government is to provide and enhance services that support the health, safety and quality of life of our residents and communities in a transparent, efficient and fiscally responsible way

§ The Lieutenant Governor’s office

§ Office of Louisiana State Parks

§ U.S. Fish and Wildlife Pearl River Wildlife Management area

§ Northlake Nature Center

§ Wildlife and Fisheries

§ Land Trust for Louisiana

§ The Nature Conservancy

§ City of Slidell

§ The Tammany Trace Foundation

§ Town of Abita Springs

§ City of Covington

§ City of Mandeville

§ Town of Pearl River

§ St. Tammany Recreation Districts #1

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Fri May 27

Cleco Presents St. Tammany Parish Government with CitySmart Incentive Check for over $23,000

St. Tammany Parish Government received their second rebate check in the amount of $23, 212.04 from Cleco, as part of the CitySmart—Commercial and Industrial Solutions Program. The first check, presented in November of 2015, was in the amount of $36,234.55. Over the past sixteen months, the St. Tammany Parish Department of Facilities Management identified several areas in which to maximize energy efficiency through the installation of new energy efficient technologies. Once these changes were in place, Cleco verified the improvements and calculated program incentives based upon the estimated annualized energy savings.

The grant incentive that was earned in this period includes upgrades performed at the Justice Center, the Wellness Center, Building B, on Koop Drive, and the Fairgrounds Annex building.

St. Tammany Parish Government Offices Closed in Observance of Memorial Day

All non-emergency offices of St. Tammany Parish Government will be closed, on Monday, May 30, 2016, in observance of Memorial Day. In addition, the Department of Animal Services will be closed on Saturday, May, 28, 2016. Regular business hours will resume Tuesday, May 31, 2016 at 8 a.m.

Tue May 17

South Louisiana Parish Presidents Formalize Group

After three beneficial meetings, Parish Presidents from the South Louisiana region have decided to form an organized association, with set meetings on a regular basis. The original meeting occurred in St. Tammany Parish in February of this year. This was an informal coalition-building, idea exchange to discuss many of the pressing and critical issues that are facing the State. The group has since met two additional times for the same purpose. At their meeting last week, it was decided that this informal coalition would now be formalized.

“These meetings have yielded amazing results,” said Brister. “Not only have we gotten to know one another personally and professionally, we have learned that though we come from different regions, and different sized communities, we all face similar problems. When we come together, we exchange ideas, gain new perspectives, and work together as a force in our region to advocate for what is best for our residents at the local level. It is a phenomenal resource for each one of us.”

In addition, the Chief Administrative Officers (CAO) for each Parish involved have decided to from their own coalition for the same purpose. To date, 21 Parishes have been invited to participate.

Fri May 13

Kelly Rabalais, St. Tammany Parish Government Executive Counsel Earns Excellence in Government Award

The Bureau of Governmental Research (BGR) recognized Kelly Rabalais, Executive Counsel and Director of the Legal Department for St. Tammany Parish Government, with the Excellence in Government Award 2016 Merit Award. The annual award, established in 1994 by the BGR, recognizes government employees and private citizens for outstanding performance and creative problem-solving.

Kelly has been with St. Tammany Parish Government since 2007. Among the accomplishments that earned recognition are: facilitating Parish Government’s purchase of the Southeast Louisiana Hospital and her diligent work to ensure that the Parish will be able to accomplish the multiple goals planned for this property; her leadership role on the Safe Haven project — a multi-agency, continuum of care behavioral health facility slated to locate on the Southeast Hospital campus; and leading efforts to revise personnel policies in more than a decade.

“Kelly defines leadership by example through her actions every single day,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “She is protective, proactive and innovative in her role as Executive Counsel. She is a brilliant motivator and a positive force in our organization. Kelly will take whatever steps are necessary and right to make extraordinary things happen, and she will see a project through down to the smallest detail. She is a driving force in bringing the operations of Parish Government into the future as we continue grow. We are very proud of Kelly, and we are grateful to BGR for taking the time to recognize excellence in government, as public servants are often overlooked for the work they do daily to better their communities.”

In her role as Executive Counsel and Director of the Legal Department, she serves as chief legal advisor and provides legal representation to the Parish President, Parish Administration and Parish Departments. Major functions provided by the Legal Department include: process and conduct all land acquisitions; review and approve all contracts; receive and process all records requests; review public bid proposals and requests for proposals, respond to bid protests, enforce contracts, and provide legal advice on procurement issues. They are also responsible for the administration of the Risk Management Office.

The BGR is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization that is dedicated to gathering information on government and other public issues.

Tue May 3

Annual Report Released On-Line or In-Print

President Pat Brister has released the 2015 St. Tammany Parish Annual Report. The report pinpoints in detail, the revenues and expenditures of St. Tammany Parish Government, as well as accomplishments by departments within Parish Government, in keeping with the tenets of customer service, transparency, collaboration and accountability embraced by the Brister administration. To save on cost, limited numbers of the abbreviated Annual Report are printed, and the remainder of entire report can be reviewed at www.stpgov.org.

“The Annual Report offers a glimpse into how Parish Government works,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “I encourage every citizen to learn more about the inner workings of Parish Government departments through this report. As always we welcome and encourage citizen input and involvement.”

Printed copies of the reports are available for pickup in St. Tammany Parish libraries and at Parish Offices. The entire report, including reports on individual departments of St. Tammany Parish Government, can be viewed at www.stpgov.org.

St. Tammany Parish Government has initiated the process of an online-adjudicated property auction through CivicSource, a leading auctioneer of tax-distressed real estate. The goal of this on-going property auction is to achieve multiple objectives including, the placement of adjudicated properties back into commerce, the reduction of blight, to offer the opportunity of property ownership in St. Tammany to every resident, and to give the original property owner a chance to settle their outstanding tax bills and redeem their properties. 1300 properties are currently being evaluated for future auctions, or redemption.

“By placing these properties back into commerce, there will be an estimated economic impact of $275,000 per year, based on their assessment in the current state — with improvements, this amount will eventually increase,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “In addition, property owners who live next door to properties already in the auction inventory, and who meet certain legal requirements, could potentially purchase that property for $1 plus closing costs. This is a great opportunity to increase their own property values, strengthen their neighborhoods, and play an essential role in blight reduction. We encourage any person interested in property ownership in St. Tammany to browse the property inventory and take advantage of this opportunity.”

“Through this online auction process, the legal legwork to vet each property is part of the purchase price of each parcel. Parish Government will have no out-of-pocket expenses, only net return,” said Kelly Rabalais, Director, St. Tammany Parish Legal Department. “In addition, the fact that anyone, from the convenience of their own home, can participate in the auction increases the exposure to the sale and increases the opportunity for investment in St. Tammany Parish.”

Interested buyers can visit www.civicsource.com to view a map, a list, or a street view of the initial auction inventory of 129 adjudicated properties and register to participate in the auction. Registered users then nominate properties that will initiate the process through a $750 deposit and place the nominated property into an active auction. With CivicSource as the auction facilitator, the final sale price of each property includes a clear title, title insurance, and closing fees. The initial $750 deposit will go toward the sale price of the winning bid. Complete details about the online auction process are available at www.civicsource.com/help, or interested buyers can call (888) 387-8033, Monday-Friday from 8a.m.-5p.m. to speak with a help representative from CivicSource and have their questions answered.

The first adjudicated property sale by St. Tammany Parish Government occurred in 2013 and resulted in the sale of 81 properties for $394,400, as well as the redemption of eight properties by the original owners who also settled their outstanding tax bills with the Parish.

Today (April 27, 2016), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded.

If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

On Monday, April 25, 2016 at approximately 5 PM a water line was broken in Countryside Subdivision causing a loss in water pressure to the above identified subdivisions. The subsequent repair was completed and water service restored by 6 PM.

Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health and Hospital regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY is in place for the customers in the subdivisions identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Wednesday, April 27th.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by an automated telephone call, signs placed at the entrances to the subdivisions and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Fri Apr 15

Slidell Location of FEMA Disaster Recovery Center to Permanently Close on Friday, April 22, 2016

The Slidell location of the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in St. Tammany Parish, on the first floor of the Towers Administrative Building located at 520 Old Spanish Trail, will not open for clients on Sunday, April 17, 2016. The DRC will resume operation on Monday, April 18, 2016 from 8 a.m. – 6p.m. and remain open through Friday, April 22, 2016 at 6p.m. when it will close permanently.

Applicants in need of services beyond April 22, 2016 should contact FEMA, at 1-800-621- FEMA (3362) or visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov . If residents need to speak with someone in person, they can visit the DRC in Tangipahoa Parish located at the Parish Planning Commission Building, 42271 South Morrison Blvd. in Hammond. Disaster assistance applicants, who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. To access resources to aid in your disaster recovery, visit www.stpgov.org/disaster .

Mon Apr 11

Debris Pickup in St. Tammany Parish Will Continue Until April 29, 2016

St. Tammany Parish Government is extending debris pickup through Friday, April 29, 2016. Residents of St. Tammany, on both the eastern and western sides of the Parish, who have flood debris that has not yet been removed, are asked to call the Department of Public Works at 985-898-2557, and give your address. Residents are asked to adhere to FEMA guidelines for debris pickup. All debris should be separated into piles and placed at the outer perimeter of property in the right-of-way, but not blocking the roadway. If your property does not have an area of right of way large enough to accommodate the debris, please place it as close to the edge of your property line as possible. The arm of the debris removal truck must be able to reach the debris. Do not place debris in black garbage bags or it will not be picked up. Debris removal crews must be able to see the debris in order to separate it correctly. White goods in the whole of St. Tammany will be retrieved at a later date because they are disposed of in a different manner and at a different location than vegetative and construction debris, so residents are advised not to be concerned if your appliances are not picked up with the bulk of your separated debris.

The six categories are as follows: vegetative debris, construction and demolition debris, appliances and white goods, electronics, and household hazardous waste.

Today (April 8, 2016), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Wed Apr 6

District 13 Community Meeting

Councilwoman S. Michele Blanchard’s District Meeting for Parish Council District 13 constituents will be held on Monday, April 11, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.at the Council Board Room located on the 5th floor of the Towers Building, 520 Old Spanish Trail, Slidell, LA 70458.

The following items will be discussed at the meeting:

1. Issues pending the Council;

2. Lighting and Sewer Districts-Guest Speaker Mike Sevante;

3. Councilwoman’s monthly report;

4. Community Concerns; and

5. Any other items of interest and concerns to District 13 constituents.

Anyone wishing additional information concerning the meeting should contact District 13 Parish Councilwoman, S. Michele Blanchard at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

On Wednesday, April 6, 2016, beginning at 9 AM, Tammany Utilities (TU) will be replacing the fire hydrant at the intersection of Savoie Drive and Piper Lane in Mandeville (weather permitting). The work will require that the water be turned off to Tammany Utilities water customers located within the highlighted area shown in the image below. Water service will be restored by 5 PM Wednesday, April 6, 2016.

Once water service is restored, out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health and Hospital regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Friday, April 8th.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

Today (April 1, 2016), Tammany Utilities received confirmation from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals that the water we provide you is safe for consumption. Therefore, the Boil Advisory is rescinded.

If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

More...

Wed Mar 30

Covington Location of FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Closing

The Covington location of the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in St. Tammany Parish will permanently close at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, 2016. The Covington DRC is located at Coquille Parks and Recreation, 13505 Highway 1085, Gym Number One. Applicants in need of services beyond March 31, 2016 should visit the Slidell DRC, on the first floor of the Towers Administrative Building located at 520 Old Spanish Trail. The Slidell DRC will allow St. Tammany Parish citizens who have suffered losses due to the flooding event earlier in the month to have access to recovery assistance from multiple agencies. In addition to FEMA personnel assisting residents with their process, Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel will also be available to answer questions.

To apply for individual disaster assistance from FEMA, call 1-800-621- FEMA (3362) or visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov . Disaster assistance applicants, who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. To access resources to aid in your disaster recovery, visit www.stpgov.org/disaster.

On Wednesday, March 30, 2016, beginning at 9 AM, Tammany Utilities (TU) will be replacing an 8” water valve located at the intersection of Elmwood Street and Cedarwood Street in Mandeville. The work will require that the water be turned off to Tammany Utilities water customers located within the highlighted area shown in the image below. Water service will be restored by 5 PM Wednesday, March 30, 2016.

Once water service is restored, out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with Department of Health and Hospital regulations, a precautionary BOIL ADVISORY will be in place for the customers identified above. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by Tammany Utilities. It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle, pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Tammany Utilities will rescind this BOIL ADVISORY upon notification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals ‑ Office of Public Health that additional water samples collected from our system have shown the water to be safe. We anticipate that the earliest the BOIL ADVISORY will be rescinded will be Friday, April 1st.

Customers affected by this advisory will be advised when it is rescinded by hand delivered notices and notices on the Parish Government’s social media sites. If you have any questions, please call Tammany Utilities at (985) 276-6400.

St. Tammany Parish Government Department of Grants will hold two Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) meetings to assist eligible homeowners in collecting the required paperwork for the completion of the application for grant funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The first meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 30, 2016, in St. Tammany Parish Council Chambers, 21490 Koop Drive in Mandeville, from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. The second meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 31, 2016, on the 5th floor of the Towers Administration Building located at 520 Old Spanish Trail, in Slidell, from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.

The FMA program is designed to mitigate high risk residential properties in an effort to reduce flood losses throughout the Parish. The mitigation process would provide approved property owners with funding to elevate their homes, bringing the structures into compliance with current flood mapping data. In order to ensure that all eligible homeowners who want to apply are included, eligible residents who have been notified are asked to bring the following items to the meeting:

· Copy of Driver’s License or State Issued Photo Identification of owner and co-owner of property

· Copy of the current Flood Insurance Declaration Page

· (Not required but recommended) Appraisal of property or Footprint to show square footage

· (Not required but recommended) Elevation Certificate

St. Tammany Parish Government will provide the Voluntary Participation Agreement and the Notarized Homeowners Affidavit Form (regarding assistance received in the past). If you are unable to attend one of the above meetings, please return all of the documents listed above, including the Voluntary Participation Agreement and the Notarized Homeowners Affidavit Form linked here, to St. Tammany Parish, Department of Grants, Hazard Mitigation Office, P.O. Box 628, Covington, LA 70434 by Friday, April 15th, 2016. If you have any questions regarding these documents, please feel free to contact the Department of Grants at (985) 867-5095 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Upon review of your submittal, a Grants Project Manager will contact you regarding the next steps.

Two Parish-Wide Jail and Justice Center Complex sales taxes are slated to come up for renewal on the Municipal General/ Special Primary election ballot, April 9, 2016. These revenues will continue to fund operations and maintenance needs of the St. Tammany Parish Jail, and the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center complex in Covington, including the Slidell Justice Center annex located in the Towers Building. Since 1998, these dedicated revenues, ¼¢ each (one fourth of one percent), have been used solely for the purposes of funding the operations and maintenance of these entities. A yes vote would renew the tax for an additional 20 years.

“The community we live in is safe and secure, and the services provided through all of these agencies funded through these taxes, play a role in that safety on several levels,” said Pat Brister, St. Tammany Parish President. “As our community continues to grow, the need for services of these agencies will grow as well, so I urge every voter in St. Tammany to vote on these two taxes which have been in place for 18 years as a dedicated funding source.”

“The two sales tax renewals are crucial to the future of public safety here in St. Tammany, “said Randy Smith, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff-Elect. “The money collected through these dedicated taxes directly impact two major components of our justice system — the St. Tammany Parish Justice Center and the St. Tammany Parish jail — and the impact on public safety will be felt for the next two decades.”

Each of these taxes brings in approximately $11,300,000 annually. In addition to the funding of facilities and maintenance of agencies within the Jail and Justice Center including: the 22nd Judicial District Court, the District Attorney, the Public Defender, the Clerk of Court, the Registrar of Voters, the Assessor, the Sheriff and the Jail, the funds will also be allocated to support capital needs of existing facilities. At the courthouse: roof replacement, technology upgrades as warranted, security equipment upgrades, air conditioning maintenance and replacement as needed, and basement moisture barrier replacement. At the jail: maximum security door system replacement, razor wire fence additions, plumbing upgrades, roof repair and replacement, technology upgrades as warranted, and sewer treatment upgrades.

Early voting for the April 9, 2016 Municipal General/ Special Primary election begins March 26 – April2, 2016. Visit www.stprov.org for election information. To read more about the proposed Parish-wide tax renewals click here.